Delhi High Court Bar Association To Abstain From Work Against Proposal To Raise District Courts' Pecuniary Jurisdiction

The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) on Monday resolved to abstain from work on July 14 in protest against the proposed enhancement of the pecuniary jurisdiction of Delhi's District Courts from Rs. 2 crore to Rs. 10 crore.

In a resolution passed today, the Association said the decision was taken in light of the view of the Full Court of the Delhi High Court regarding the proposed enhancement, despite what it described as the DHCBA's “strong opposition” to the move.

According to the resolution, the Executive Committee expressed concern that the proposal would have “far-reaching ramifications” on the justice delivery system and would adversely affect the practice, livelihood and professional interests of a large number of advocates practising before the Delhi High Court.

The Bar Association further stated that the enhancement would significantly reduce the High Court's Original Side jurisdiction, claiming that nearly 70% of the cases on the Original Side would stand transferred as a consequence of the proposed increase in pecuniary limits.

The Committee said the decision to abstain from work was taken after taking note of the “serious adverse consequences” likely to be faced by members of the Association.

Accordingly, the DHCBA has called upon its members to abstain from work on July 14 and requested all members to extend their full cooperation and solidarity “in the collective interest of the Bar.”