Boycotting Courts Frequently On Flimsy Reasons Or Individual Grievances Is To Be Deprecated: Madras High Court
The Madras High Court, while considering a Writ Petition by a Lawyer seeking initiation of disciplinary proceedings against the erring office bearers of Tirunelveli Bar Association, has observed about boycotts by lawyers that lawyers are officers of the court, and their absence will affect court proceedings. The Court added that boycotts by lawyers on flimsy reasons are undoubtedly a concern to the judiciary.
The Petitioner R. Jim who appeared in person alleged that for flimsy reasons, boycotts are announced by the Tirunelveli Bar Association, thereby causing inconvenience to the public at large and other lawyers, who are all ready and willing to appear before the courts for the benefit of the litigants, who are all longing to secure justice in the court of law.
The Division Bench of Justice S.M. Subramaniam and Justice A.D. Maria Clete observed, “ Boycotts by the lawyers on flimsy reasons are undoubtedly a concern to the judiciary and this exactly is the reason why the Honourable Supreme Court of India time and again in numerous judgments reiterated that lawyers have to resolve their grievances by approaching the competent forums or the authorities, than resorting to boycotts.”
The Court further observed, “Lawyers are not the employees or workmen. They are professionals and bound to protect the interest of the litigants and the majesty of the courts. Thus, boycotting the courts frequently on flimsy reasons or based on certain individual grievances of any lawyer at no circumstance be appreciated, but the same is to be deprecated.”
The Court disposed of the Writ Petition while clarifying that in the event of receiving any specific complaint from the Petitioner against the office bearers of the Tirunelveli Bar Association or any practicing lawyer, the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry should initiate appropriate action as contemplated under the Advocates Act, 1961.
Cause Title: R. Jim v. The Secretary, Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry & Ors. [W.P.(MD) No.11182 of 2025]
Appearance
Petitioner: In Person
Respondents: Advocates K.R.Laxman and N.Tamilmani
