Delhi High Court Bar Association Resolves To Abstain From Work On First And Third Saturdays Of Every Month

The Executive Committee of the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has unanimously resolved to abstain from work on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month, effective April 4, 2026.

The decision came as a formal protest against a notification bearing No. 58/G-4/Genl.-I/DHC, dated January 15, 2026, issued by the Delhi High Court that mandated these days as official court sittings.

The Notice, issued by Senior Advocate N. Hariharan, President and Hony. Secretary Vikram Singh Panwar DHCBA, stated, "As such, all members of the Delhi High Court Bar Association are requested to co-operate and abstain from work on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month, starting from 04.04.2026. Further, it is informed that proxy counsels shall be designated for each court, on these days."

Despite multiple representations from the Bar highlighting practical difficulties—such as conflicts with tribunal appearances, arbitrations, and essential preparation time—the Association noted that the court has yet to reconsider its stance. To manage urgent matters during these boycotts, the DHCBA plans to designate proxy counsels for each court.

It said, "The Executive Committee arrived at the above decision after duly noting that though multiple representations had been made to the Hon'ble High Court, seeking reconsideration of the said decision, however, no reconsideration had taken place...In this regard, the Executive Committee also considered the representations received from the members of the Bar highlighting the serious practical difficulties arising from Saturday sittings. Members had expressed that the present arrangement would cause significant disruption to their professional schedules, including appearances before various tribunals, arbitrations, mediation and courts outside Delhi. The Committee also took note of the adverse impact on preparation time, client meetings and overall professional efficiency."

It also said that the Executive Committee reiterates its request to the Delhi High Court for reconsideration of the decision mandating the working of the Delhi High Court on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month. The Executive Committee sincerely hopes that the concerns of the Bar will receive due consideration and that an appropriate decision will be taken in the interest of the Bar, it added.

Click here to read/download the Notice