Responding to the call of the action committee, the District Bar Association, Fatehgarh Sahib, started an indefinite strike against the Legal Aid Defence Counsel System (LADCS) on Tuesday. A “no-work day” brought judicial work in the district courts to a standstill.
Strike Halts Court Operations
Litigants, especially those who had travelled from distant areas, faced inconvenience as the lawyers sealed the entry to the court complex. The protest began early in the morning, with members gathering outside the court complex holding placards and shouting slogans against the new legal aid policy.
District Bar Association president Advocate Gagandeep Singh Virk said they strongly oppose the LADCS. He alleged that the system is adversely affecting the livelihood of practising lawyers, particularly young advocates and those from economically weaker backgrounds. He claimed that the provision for free legal aid is being misused by people who are financially capable of engaging private counsel, resulting in a decline in work for independent lawyers.
Concerns Over Misuse of Free Legal Aid
According to Virk, the LADCS allows individuals to avail free legal services regardless of their financial status, which undermines the income of private practitioners. He stated that many clients who could afford to pay are now opting for free legal aid, leaving lawyers without adequate work. The association has called for a review of the system to ensure it targets only those who genuinely cannot afford legal representation.
The association said the strike would continue until the government addresses the legal fraternity’s concerns or withdraws the policy. No date for the resumption of work has been announced, and the lawyers have vowed to maintain the protest until their demands are met.
Impact on Litigants and Judicial Work
The strike caused significant disruption for litigants, many of whom had traveled long distances for court hearings. Cases scheduled for the day were adjourned indefinitely, and court premises remained largely empty except for protesting lawyers. The district court complex, which typically handles hundreds of cases daily, saw no judicial proceedings.
Local residents expressed frustration over the sudden halt, with some calling for dialogue between the bar association and government officials to resolve the issue quickly. However, the association has so far refused to negotiate unless the government agrees to withdraw or amend the LADCS.
Background of the Legal Aid Defence Counsel System
The Legal Aid Defence Counsel System was introduced to provide free legal assistance to underprivileged individuals accused of crimes. It aims to ensure access to justice for those who cannot afford private lawyers. However, lawyers in Fatehgarh Sahib argue that the system is flawed and has led to a drop in cases for private practitioners, especially young advocates who rely on small cases for their income.
The protest in Fatehgarh Sahib is part of a broader movement by bar associations across Punjab against the LADCS. Similar strikes have been reported in other districts, with lawyers demanding a revision of the policy to prevent misuse and protect their livelihoods.
