Chhattisgarh High Court Issues Strict Circular to Curb Bench Hunting

April 17, 2026 : The High Court of Chhattisgarh has issued a significant circular dated April 16, 2026, aimed at preventing the growing practice of “Bench/Court hunting” by litigants and legal practitioners. The directive emphasizes that seeking exception from a particular Bench should remain a rare occurrence, permitted only under genuine and bona fide circumstances.

Under the new guidelines, advocates are advised not to accept briefs in cases where their appearance could lead to a conflict of interest necessitating recusal. This includes situations involving professional or personal relationships with a presiding judge, such as prior association as a junior in the judge’s office or any close personal connection as outlined under professional conduct rules. Even if such a brief is accepted, it will not automatically qualify as a valid ground for seeking a change of Bench.

The circular also addresses scenarios involving pending matters affected by changes in court roster. In such cases, advocates have the option to withdraw their appearance. However, if they choose not to do so, the concerned Bench retains the authority to scrutinize the circumstances, including the timing and intent behind the engagement.

Importantly, the court has clarified that exceptions will only be granted in rare and exceptional cases, with detailed reasons recorded in writing. Additionally, any matter requiring reassignment due to such exceptions must be placed before the Chief Justice for appropriate orders.

This directive supersedes the earlier circular issued on March 23, 2023, reinforcing the judiciary’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and preventing misuse of procedural practices.