Indefinite Strike Begins Over Legal Aid Defence Counsel Policy
Members of the District Bar Association in Hoshiarpur launched an indefinite strike on Monday, July 7, 2026, protesting against the Legal Aid Defence Counsel (LADC) Policy. The action follows directives from the Punjab Bar Association, which has taken a strong stance against the policy. The strike aims to pressure authorities to withdraw the LADC Policy and revert to the earlier system of empanelling local advocates for free legal aid services.
Leadership and Unanimous Decision
The strike is spearheaded by District Bar Association President Advocate PS Ghumman. He stated that the association’s executive committee unanimously decided to support the decisions of the Joint Action Committee of the Punjab Bar Association. Advocate Ghumman emphasized that the Punjab Bar Association had previously resolved to oppose the LADC Policy, citing concerns over its implementation and alleged misuse.
Chief Justice of India Acknowledged Concerns
Advocate Ghumman revealed that the Chief Justice of India had recognized the issues surrounding the LADC Policy and formed a committee to review it. However, despite significant time passing, no report or final decision has been made public. During a meeting between Punjab Bar Association representatives and the Chief Justice, it was acknowledged that while the policy aimed to improve legal services, its alleged misuse necessitated a review. The Bar Association has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the policy by the Chief Justice, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), and the Punjab Legal Services Authority (PLSA), and a restoration of the previous system where advocates from local bar associations were empanelled for free legal aid.
Future Course of Action
The District Bar Association will align its future actions with the decisions of the Punjab Bar Association’s Joint Action Committee. The indefinite strike will continue until further directions from the association. Advocate Ghumman confirmed that the executive committee is committed to the protest and will monitor developments closely.
Impact on Legal Services
The strike has disrupted court proceedings and legal services in Hoshiarpur, as lawyers abstain from work. The protest highlights ongoing tensions between the legal community and authorities over the LADC Policy, which lawyers argue undermines their role and leads to misuse. The outcome of the strike could influence similar actions across Punjab, as the state bar association coordinates the protest. The legal fraternity awaits a response from the Chief Justice and legal authorities, hoping for a resolution that addresses their concerns.
