The agitation by the District Bar Association, Ludhiana—launched at the call of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Punjab Bar Associations in opposition to the LADC (Legal Aid Defense Counsel) policy—continued with full vigor for the second consecutive day. Due to the advocates’ complete judicial boycott, the regular functioning of the district courts was severely disrupted, and in most cases, matters were adjourned to future dates without a hearing.
Throughout the agitation, the main gate connecting the court complex and the chamber complex remained closed, clearly demonstrating the Bar Association’s collective resolve and solidarity. Advocates observed a ‘No Work Day’ within the court premises all day, refraining from appearing or arguing cases in any court. District Bar Association President Vipin Saggar stated that the current LADC policy undermines the professional rights of advocates and the role of Bar Associations. He asserted that the struggle would continue until the policy is withdrawn and the previous system of constituting panels through Bar Associations is restored.
Bar Association Secretary Himanshu Walia remarked that this agitation is not merely about the interests of advocates but also about safeguarding the transparency and independence of the judicial system. He stated that the ‘No Work Day’ would remain fully in effect until further instructions from the Joint Action Committee of Punjab Bar Associations, and that all advocates would continue the agitation in unison. The Bar Association clarified that their movement would proceed in a peaceful and democratic manner and that the advocates’ struggle would persist until the LADC policy is withdrawn.
