The Bar Council of Delhi issued a 29 January 2026 notification fixing the 2026 election schedule and voter ID norms for polling at Delhi High Court premises. Justice Talwant Singh, Returning Officer, outlined measures ensuring transparent, and orderly conduct.
NEW DELHI: The Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) has formally released a notification outlining the election schedule and voter identification norms for the upcoming Bar Council of Delhi Elections 2026. Issued on 29 January 2026, the notice is intended to streamline the electoral process and eliminate uncertainty regarding voter eligibility and access to polling stations at the Delhi High Court premises.
The notification has been issued under the authority of Justice Talwant Singh, Former Judge of the Delhi High Court, who has been appointed as the Returning Officer for the 2026 BCD elections. The directions aim to ensure transparency, efficiency, and orderly conduct of the elections.
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Election Dates and Polling Venue:
According to the official notice, polling for the Bar Council of Delhi elections will be conducted over three consecutive days:
- 20 February 2026
- 21 February 2026
- 22 February 2026
All voting will take place within the Delhi High Court complex, offering ease of access to advocates enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi. The decision to spread polling across multiple days appears to be a strategic measure to manage a large electorate and prevent overcrowding or disruption during voting.
Mandatory Identity Verification for Voters:
A central feature of the notification is the detailed clarification on identity requirements for entry into the polling area. The Returning Officer has stressed that identity verification is mandatory for all voters.
- Primary Identification Requirement
Advocates must carry a valid Bar Council of Delhi Identity Card to enter the polling area and cast their vote.
- Alternative Documents (If BCD ID Is Unavailable or Expired)
In situations where a voter does not possess a valid or current BCD Identity Card, the following alternatives will be accepted:
- Identity Card issued by any Bar Association in Delhi, or
- A proximity card reflecting the advocate’s enrolment number
These must be supported by any one of the following government-issued identity documents like Aadhaar Card, Voter Identity Card, Driving Licence or Passport
This approach ensures that eligible advocates are not excluded due to administrative delays in issuance or renewal of BCD identity cards.
The Bar Council of Delhi has issued these clarifications in anticipation of recurring issues witnessed in previous bar elections, particularly disputes related to identity verification and entry into polling booths. Delays in updating or issuing Bar Council identity cards have historically led to confusion, objections, and election-day disruptions.
By issuing clear instructions well in advance, the Council seeks to:
- Prevent impersonation and unauthorised voting
- Reduce last-minute disputes at polling stations
- Enable election officials to regulate access efficiently
- Maintain the overall integrity of the electoral process
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The notice bears the signature of Justice Talwant Singh, Former Judge of the Delhi High Court, who has been entrusted with supervising the Bar Council of Delhi Elections 2026.
As Returning Officer, his responsibilities include overseeing compliance with election rules, managing procedural issues, and ensuring fairness throughout the electoral process. His appointment reinforces confidence in the neutrality and credibility of the election mechanism.
The notification dated 29 January 2026 reflects a proactive effort by the Bar Council of Delhi to conduct the 2026 elections in a fair, transparent, and dispute-free manner. By clearly defining election dates, polling arrangements, and voter identification requirements, the Council has taken significant steps to uphold democratic participation within the legal fraternity and strengthen institutional trust.
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