THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, July 9: The Jharkhand High Court Advocate Association today announced a complete one-day boycott of Chief Justice Ramchandra Rao’s Court (Court No. 1) on July 10, as part of a renewed protest against what the association describes as the improper formation of benches. The decision was taken unanimously during a general body meeting held Wednesday morning near the court escalator, with a large number of advocates in attendance.
This is not the first time the Advocate Association has raised objections against Chief Justice Rao’s administrative decisions. Advocates have previously protested over the same issue, citing serious concerns about delays in case hearings and the increasing backlog of both civil and criminal matters.
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In the latest meeting, the association passed two key resolutions. The first calls for a complete boycott of Court No. 1 for one day on July 10. The second involves a symbolic protest, in which all advocates will wear white ribbons starting July 11, as a peaceful expression of dissent.
The Advocate Association stated that the recent refusal by Chief Justice Rao to revise the bench formation has worsened the judicial workflow, leading to mounting pendency and causing hardship for litigants. Earlier in the day, a delegation from the association met with the Chief Justice to request changes to the roster system. However, the demand was reportedly rejected, prompting the association to adopt a united stand.
Association office bearers, including President Ritu Kumar, General Secretary Naveen Kumar, and Treasurer Pran Pranay, were present at the meeting and called on all advocates to participate in the protest while maintaining discipline and professional decorum.
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“The association is committed to addressing these issues through dialogue,” a statement from the body read, “but we also have a responsibility to ensure the smooth and fair functioning of the judicial system.”
Key issues discussed during the general body meeting included:
- The impact of current bench formation on the legal system, advocates, and litigants
- Review of previous and current discussions with the Hon’ble Chief Justice
- Strategic planning for future actions
- Exploration of alternative measures to ensure justice delivery
- Other matters raised by members of the general body
The association has emphasised that while the protest will remain peaceful, the concerns being raised are serious and require immediate attention from the judiciary’s administrative leadership.
