Supreme Court dismisses plea on Rajasthan trial court staff’s protest; CJI Gavai criticizes strike during new CJ’s early tenure. “Bulk of workforce has returned,” said lawyer—SC unimpressed.
New Delhi: On July 29, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition filed by the Rajasthan Judicial Employees Association in connection with a collective leave protest held by trial court staff across Rajasthan.
The case was brought before a bench led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai.
During the hearing, the counsel appearing for the association informed the Court that a large number of the protesting staff had already resumed duty.
“Bulk of workforce has returned to work,”
the lawyer stated, attempting to emphasize that the situation was under control.
In response, Chief Justice Gavai sought clarity on the duration of the protest.
He asked,
“For how many days were on strike?”
The counsel replied,
“For 7 days mylord, in fact 3 effective working days, it was a peaceful protest.”
However, the Court appeared unconvinced and went on to dismiss the petition with a sharp rebuke.
CJI Gavai firmly said,
“Dismissed,”
Following this, the lawyer made a humble plea to the bench, urging the Court to consider the long-term implications of disciplinary action against the employees.
The lawyer requested,
“Please requesting that disciplinary proceedings not be taken, this will not happen again,”
But the bench remained stern in its stand. Chief Justice Gavai expressed deep concern over the impact such protests have on the functioning of the judiciary, stating,
“So many hours of judicial work is suffering.”
Taking a strong stand against the timing of the protest, the Chief Justice highlighted the pressure being placed on the new head of the Rajasthan High Court.
“He is a newly appointed Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court, barely 2 weeks, and you lawyers are doing strike?”
questioned CJI Gavai, pointing out the lack of consideration shown by the legal fraternity.
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In a tone reflecting both disappointment and frustration, he concluded,
“You’re not giving him any breathing time, what is this?”
The Supreme Court’s strong observations reflect its growing intolerance for actions that disrupt judicial operations, especially strikes or collective protests by court staff and advocates.
Case Title:
RAJASTHAN JUDICIAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION Versus STATE OF RAJASTHAN AND ORS.
W.P.(C) No. 713/2025 X
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