New Delhi (22) – The legal fraternity has risen up in unison against the proposed Lawyers Reform Bill 2025, with lawyers from lower courts in Delhi entering the fifth day of their strike. The bill, drafted by the Union Law Ministry, prohibits lawyers from boycotting court proceedings, sparking widespread outrage among lawyers.The strike has brought court proceedings to a grinding halt, with only judges and staff present. Lawyers, who are often the champions of justice for others, are now fighting for their own rights.The bill has also raised concerns about the autonomy and dignity of the Bar Association and the Bar Council. Lawyers argue that the legislation erodes their unity, integrity, and dignity.According to the Lawyers Reform Bill 2025, lawyers are prohibited from boycotting court proceedings. The new draft states that lawyers can participate in strikes only when the administration of justice is not obstructed. This bill is seen as a threat to the unity, integrity, and dignity of lawyers, and will have a direct impact on the Bar Association and the Bar Council, according to a circular issued by the Bar Association.The bill has sparked outrage among lawyers across the country. Today marks the fifth day of the lawyers’ strike at the Karkardooma court in northeast Delhi. An urgent meeting was held on Sunday, and the lawyers decided to strike against this bill.Talking to the media, Delhi Bar Association President Nitin Ahlawat said, “It is a day to show that lawyers will never back down. Even if they crack our skulls, we will be ready.” Shahadara Bar Associate Secretary and Advocate Raman Sharma stated to media that if the rights of lawyers are taken away, the lawyers will not keep quiet.A symbolic effigy was burnt with black paint while chanting slogans of ‘Wakil Ekta Zindabad’ to protest the draft. The effigy was marked with the words ‘Kala Kanun Wapas Lo’. All lawyers are united in rejecting this bill.Senior lawyer Advocate Sonali Bhagat (Maharashtra) opined that there are many pending problems faced by lawyers. “Lawyers are often at risk of being attacked by their clients, and if such a bill is passed, the independence of lawyers will be compromised. The government should guarantee the safety of lawyers. Otherwise, lawyers have no option but to protest or strike in solidarity. This right is being taken away from them. It is a repressive policy of the government.”The courts are deserted, with only judges and other staff present. Lawyers who fight for justice for others have joined the strike to demand justice for themselves. The outcome of the strike and the fate of the bill remain uncertain.
By Anupriya Gaikwad
For True to Life News Media Pvt. Ltd.