Supreme Court Refuses To Entertain Petition Seeking Relaxations For Advocates' Dress Code In Summers

The Supreme Court today (September 17), while refusing to entertain a petition seeking exemption for advocates from wearing black coats during summer months, emphasized the importance of maintaining dress code decorum in the courts. 

The counsel for the petitioner sought exemption the coat and gown requirement while keeping the band, in the light of the extreme summer heat that advocates face especially at trial courts and High Courts. 

However, the bench led by CJI DY Chandrachud comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that advocates must wear appropriate attire, ruling out casual clothing like shorts and t-shirts in court.

"You have to wear something ? We cannot have people wearing shorts and t-shirts to court, there has to be some decorum" CJI said 

The CJI suggested that the petitioner pursue the matter with the Bar Council of India (BCI) and the High Courts, as they are responsible for deciding such matters. He further reiterated that proper attire is essential for maintaining decorum in the courtroom. CJI also observed that several High Courts have allowed exemption from wearing gowns during summer season.

 "You are member of the bar, some decorum....what will you wear, you have to come properly attired, it is a matter of decorum" 

The bench dismissed the petition as withdrawn while noting that the counsel agreed to make representations to the BCI and the Union government for suitable amendments to the dress code under the Advocates Act 1961. 

Case details : SHAILENDRA MANI TRIPATHI Versus BAR COUNCIL OF INDIA AND ORS.Diary No. 24405-2024