Supreme Court Takes Cognisance Of SCBA Resolution Against AP HC Judge Ordering Custody Of Young Lawyer Mid-Hearing

The Supreme Court today took cognisance of a representation and resolution passed by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) condemning the recent incident in which a young advocate was directed to be taken into judicial custody for 24 hours during court proceedings by Andhra Pradesh High Court.

The Court registered the writ petition after the association urged the Chief Justice of India to take “appropriate institutional cognizance” of the matter and consider corrective and administrative measures appropriate to preserve public confidence in the judiciary and maintain cordial Bar-Bench relations.

The writ petition was registered following the controversy in proceedings before Justice Tarlada Rajasekhar Rao of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, where a young advocate was directed to be taken into judicial custody for 24 hours during the hearing of a writ petition.

In videos that later circulated on social media, Justice Rao was heard orally rebuking the lawyer appearing in the matter and directing that police be called. The order passed by the Court stated that the “Counsel for the petitioner has behaved indolently” and directed the police to take the advocate into custody for 24 hours.

The order was reportedly recalled later following intervention by members of the Bar.

The SCBA Executive Committee expressed concern and shock over the incident noting that the young lawyer could be seen repeatedly expressing regret and seeking pardon from the Court.

“The relationship between the Bench and the Bar is founded upon mutual respect, dignity, patience, and institutional balance,” the SCBA stated, adding that advocates are officers of the court and play an essential role in the administration of justice.

While emphasising that the authority and majesty of courts must always be respected, the association said the exercise of judicial powers must also reflect “restraint, proportionality, fairness, and compassion”.

“The rule of law being the foundation of our Constitutional system requires maintenance of decorum and discipline in court proceedings and also fairness in the exercise of judicial authority,” the resolution stated.

The association further observed that judicial strength is reflected through patience and balanced conduct, particularly while dealing with young lawyers who are still learning and evolving in the profession.

The SCBA had also stated that any action causing fear, humiliation, or intimidation among young advocates could adversely affect the independence of the Bar and the functioning of the justice delivery system.

Case no. – Diary No. - 28532/2026

Case Title – Supreme Court Bar Association v. High Court of Andhra Pradesh