The electoral process for the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana has been officially set in motion, with polling dates announced for March 2026. This crucial exercise, mandated every five years, will see lawyers across the region elect their representatives to the statutory body governing the legal profession.
Key Polling Dates and Administrative Directives
The elections will commence in Chandigarh on March 17, 2026. This will be immediately followed by district-level polling across the entire state of Haryana on the very next day, March 18, 2026. The timeline is being strictly adhered to following a directive from the Supreme Court of India dated December 3, 2025.
To ensure the smooth conduct of the polls, Sumita Misra, the Additional Chief Secretary for Home, Jails, Criminal Investigation, and Administration of Justice, issued clear instructions on Friday. All Deputy Commissioners in Haryana have been directed to put necessary administrative and logistical arrangements in place without delay.
Ensuring a Transparent and Orderly Process
The returning officer for the Bar Council has formally requested the deployment of officials from the state's revenue department. These officials will supervise and manage the polling process on the ground. Specific instructions for their timely deployment and coordination will be issued to all Deputy Commissioners.
The state administration has outlined a comprehensive checklist for the DCs to follow, which includes:
- Timely preparation and publication of the polling schedule.
- Accurate compilation and verification of voter lists comprising eligible advocates.
- Identification and setup of appropriate polling stations.
- Arrangement of all necessary infrastructure and materials required for voting.
Focus on Security and Voter Facilitation
Authorities have emphasized that special attention will be given to robust security arrangements at all polling locations. Furthermore, voter facilitation measures will be implemented to ensure a seamless experience for every practicing lawyer. The process will be subject to real-time monitoring to swiftly address any operational challenges that may arise during the voting.
Sumita Misra reiterated the state government's commitment, stating that the Haryana government views this responsibility with the utmost seriousness. The administration is steadfastly committed to upholding the highest standards of election conduct and providing full cooperation to the returning officer.
The overarching goal is to create a conducive environment where every eligible advocate can freely and conveniently exercise their democratic voting rights. The elections are conducted under the provisions of the Advocates Act, 1961, and the current expedited schedule is aimed at ensuring the continuity of democratic governance within this vital professional body.
