Delhi High Court Bar Association Calls Boycott of First & Third Saturdays Over Mandatory Court Sittings

March 3, 2026 : The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has resolved to abstain from professional work on the first and third Saturdays of every month starting April 4, 2026. The decision comes in protest against the Delhi High Court notification mandating regular court sittings on those Saturdays.

As per an official notice dated April 2, the resolution was unanimously adopted by the Executive Committee during its meeting on March 27, following unsuccessful representations seeking reconsideration of the revised schedule introduced on January 15, 2026.

The Bar flagged significant practical difficulties arising from the change, including clashes with appearances before tribunals, arbitral forums, and courts outside Delhi. It also highlighted the adverse impact on essential preparatory work such as drafting, research, and client consultations, stressing that the absence of a predictable non-working day disrupts professional efficiency.

Describing the move as a collective expression of institutional concern rather than obstruction, the Association said the decision followed detailed consultations with its members. It also pointed to broader issues of work-life balance in an already demanding litigation environment.

To minimise disruption in urgent matters, the DHCBA stated that proxy counsel would be arranged for each court on the affected Saturdays.

The Association has reiterated its request to the High Court to revisit the notification, expressing hope that the concerns of the Bar will be considered in the interest of both the legal fraternity and the administration of justice.