Phagwara Bar Association observes ‘No Work Day’ to protest state legal policies

Phagwara Bar Association today observed a complete "No Work Day" in response to a state-level call given by various Bar Associations across Punjab, protesting against the policy concerning action plan cases and the appointments of legal aid defence counsels in the state.

As a result, judicial work remained suspended in the courts at Phagwara, with advocates abstaining from professional duties for the day.

According to information shared by the Bar Association, a meeting of the Bar Association Phagwara (regd) was held prior to the protest under the president ship Ravinder Kumar Sharma, Advocate. During the meeting, the members unanimously resolved to strictly observe the no-work call as a mark of collective dissent against the policies, which, according to the Association, adversely affect the independence and functioning of the legal profession.

The members of the Bar Association expressed strong solidarity with the legal fraternity across Punjab, stating that the protest was aimed at drawing the attention of the authorities towards the concerns of advocates regarding the implementation of Action Plan Cases and the manner of appointments of Legal Aid Defence Counsels. The Association emphasised that the unity shown by advocates was essential to safeguard professional ethics, fair legal processes, and the interests of litigants.

The Bar Association Phagwara also appealed to the Hon'ble Judicial Officers and Revenue Officers to cooperate with the resolution and stand in support of the cause. The protest remained peaceful and disciplined throughout the day, reflecting the Bar's commitment to ethical and constitutional means of expressing dissent.

Leaders of the Association reiterated that such steps were taken only after due deliberation and were intended to protect the dignity of the legal profession. They further expressed hope that the state authorities would take note of the grievances raised by the Bar Associations and initiate constructive dialogue to resolve the issues at the earliest.