In a landmark decision, the Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh Bar Council to develop specific guidelines that would prohibit lawyers from wearing their traditional black coats outside the confines of court premises. This directive, issued by a bench comprising Justices Sangeeta Chandra and Narendra Kumar Johari, aims to address the growing concern over the misuse of the advocate’s uniform in extrajudicial activities, particularly in private land disputes and affiliations with land mafias.
The impetus for this directive came from a petition filed by Subhanshu Singh, a lawyer based in Lucknow. Singh’s petition stemmed from an incident in September, where he claimed to have been assaulted by fellow lawyers within the Civil Court premises in Lucknow. Seeking an independent agency to investigate the matter, Singh’s case brought to light a broader issue of misconduct among legal professionals.
In their observation, the bench noted the troubling trend of lawyers intervening in private property disputes while donning their professional attire, thereby lending undue weight and authority to their actions. The court stated,
“Several cases were being filed alleging that advocates in uniform intervened in private property disputes and assisted land mafia in grabbing property of the citizens.”
This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for the misuse of the advocate’s uniform in exerting influence or intimidation in private matters.
The bench of Justice Sangeeta Chandra and Justice Narendra Kumar Johari, in issuing their directive, stressed the importance of advocates avoiding their uniforms outside the court. This move is seen as crucial in preserving the sanctity and respect associated with the legal profession’s attire. The court’s decision to involve the UP Bar Council in formulating these guidelines indicates a proactive approach to ensure that the dignity of the legal profession is maintained and that the advocate’s uniform is not exploited for personal or unethical purposes.
The Allahabad High Court’s decision is a significant step towards reinforcing ethical practices within the legal community. By regulating the use of the advocate’s uniform, the court aims to prevent its misuse in activities that are unrelated to legal practice, thereby upholding the integrity and respectability of the legal profession.
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