The Phagwara Bar Association brought legal proceedings to a standstill on Tuesday as its members observed a complete 'No Work Day'. The protest was a powerful demonstration of their long-standing demands for better infrastructure and facilities for the judiciary in the region.
Core Demands Behind the Protest
The primary grievance fueling the protest is the dire state of the existing court premises. Lawyers have been advocating for the construction of a new, integrated judicial court complex in Phagwara for an extended period. They argue that the current facilities are inadequate, hindering the efficient administration of justice and creating inconvenience for both legal professionals and the public.
In a show of solidarity, the executive committee of the District Bar Association, Kapurthala, supported the protest call. The decision to abstain from work was made during a general house meeting of the Phagwara Bar, reflecting a unified stance among the local legal fraternity.
Impact and Solidarity
The 'No Work Day' had an immediate and tangible impact. Court work across all levels in Phagwara was severely affected, with lawyers staying away from courtrooms. This action underscored the seriousness of their concerns and aimed to draw the attention of the concerned administrative authorities.
Prominent office-bearers of the Phagwara Bar Association led the protest. President Advocate Sanjeev Kumar and Secretary Advocate Rajan Ghai were at the forefront, articulating the bar's frustrations. They emphasized that the protest was not merely symbolic but a necessary step to break the administrative inertia surrounding their legitimate demands for improved judicial infrastructure.
A Call for Urgent Action
The protest highlights a critical issue in the district's judicial system. The lawyers' action sends a clear message to the state government and the district administration about the urgent need for intervention. The legal community in Phagwara has made it clear that the status quo is unacceptable and that delays in addressing the infrastructure deficit directly affect access to justice.
While the protest disrupted daily court activities, the bar association views it as a short-term sacrifice for long-term gain. The resolution passed by the general house mandates continued pressure until concrete steps are taken towards the construction of the proposed new court complex, which they believe is essential for a modern and functional legal system in the area.
