'He Has Done Little For Growth Of Institution': Punjab & Haryana High Court Bar Association Passes Resolution Against Chief Justice Ravi Shanker Jha

A similar resolution was passed by it in February this year, against non-resumption of physical hearings.

The Association claims that Justice Jha has not co-operated with the Bar and has taken least interest in the problems faced by the general public of States of Punjab, Haryana and Union Territory of Chandigarh.

"Despite various requests and offer of viable solutions, the Hon'ble Chief Justice has remained adamant and have done little for the growth of the Institution, Legal Fraternity and general public of both the States and Union Territory of Chandigarh," a resolution passed by the Association on Friday states.

It is stated that the Bench strength in the Punjab and Haryana High Court has been reduced from 46 to 11 implying that Court work has been reduced, resulting into further backlog of cases.

"The High Court is the custodian of Constitution and protector of fundamental rights. It cannot shut its doors for the justice seekers," the Association said.

It is alleged that even matters of urgent nature, especially Habeas Corpus petitions, Anticipatory Bails, Regular Bails, Suspension of Sentence, Stay matters and other matters involving Violation of fundamental rights, are not being listed.

In fact, an arbitrary fashion of listing has been devised whereby a case can be listed only after mentioning, which is being done on a 'pick and choose' policy.

"More than 300 written complaints and numerous oral complaints have been received in the Office of the Executive Committee regarding wrongful rejection of mentioning and use of pick and choose policy in allowing limited cases," the resolution states.

It has thus been resolved that until Justice Jha's transfer to some other High Court, the members of the Bar will boycott his Court and those who violate the call shall be liable for disciplinary action.

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