Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association seeks guidance on Court functioning amid rising tensions
Kuljinder Sra
Chandigarh, May 10, 2025 — The Bar Association of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Chandigarh, has submitted a formal communication to the Hon’ble Chief Justice, seeking guidance on the functioning of the courts from Monday, May 12, 2025, in light of the ongoing war-like situation and potential threats in the region.
The Bar Association clarified that its earlier decision to abstain from work on May 9, 2025, was taken as an emergency measure following a sudden blackout, electricity cuts, and an airstrike threat announced by the Indian Air Force.
The advisory issued by the Deputy Commissioner and SSP, Chandigarh, instructed citizens to stay indoors, and sirens were reportedly sounded before court hours, adding to the urgency of the situation.
The Association also highlighted that drone attacks in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Ferozepur had caused widespread panic, requiring an immediate response.
Additionally, intercity travel bans during the night impacted many advocates, police officials, and litigants who typically commute from outside Chandigarh to attend court proceedings.
Given that many are not equipped with virtual court (VC) facilities, the Bar Association deemed it appropriate to abstain from work temporarily.
The Bar has now sought further instructions from the Chief Justice on the future course of action to ensure safety and the smooth functioning of court activities during this sensitive period.