'Inappropriate, Sexist' : Lawyers Object To Dance Shows At Holi Celebrations Of New Delhi Bar Association

The dance shows held at the official Holi celebrations organised by the New Delhi Bar Association at the premises of the Patiala House Court complex on March 6 have come under criticism from several lawyers for being inappropriate, and sexist.

A letter, endorsed by over 100 lawyers, has been forwarded to the office bearers of the New Delhi Bar Association expressing shock at the dance programs. The signatories  point out that videos from the event "featuring scantily-clad women dancers", performing "inappropriate dance numbers" to songs like ‘babuji zara dheere chalo’ and ‘dilbar dilbar’ are getting circulated in social media.

Clarifying that the "letter is not directed against the dancers themselves, who were doing their job and no disrespect is intended to them", the lawyers wrote that it is "totally inappropriate, sexist, and unbecoming of lawyers to host such an event under the official name of any Bar Association and in the premises of a court".

"These actions lower the majesty of the Court and also amount to various other legal wrongs. Further, you must also be aware that the hosting of this function in the court premises amounts to sexual harassment of a non-verbal nature that creates a hostile work environment for women lawyers, judicial officers, and staff who frequent the Patiala House courts. We are especially offended by this incident as we take pride in our profession and do not want to see it being denigrated in this manner", the letter stated further.

"Hosting events of this nature that objectify women and reduce them to devices for entertainment and pleasure are directly contrary to all goals of a modern society in a country that aims to be a world leader. It is not only misogynistic, it brings disrepute to the country, because it tarnishes the image of India that a Bar Association in the capital city would think of hosting such a vulgar event. Please do not organise such events in the future. It is uncivilized and unconstitutional", the letter stated.

A copy of the letter has been marked to the Bar Council of Delhi urging it to take appropriate action against the individuals who were responsible for organising the event after due enquiry.

A separate representation has been sent to the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court as well seeking prompt action reprimanding New Delhi Bar Association for organising such events.

"How can a court complex be a safe working environment for women Advocates, if such inappropriate performances objectifying women are legitimized under the guise of Holi Celebrations. Ironically, Holi being the festival of colours signifies triumph of good over evil. It is very unfortunate that in today’s time, such brazen acts undermining rights and safety of women, are being permitted within a court complex", stated the representation sent to the Chief Justice.

LiveLaw reached out to the New Delhi Bar Association for their response. The report will be updated when their response is received.

Read the letter sent to NDBA here

Read the representation sent to the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court here