Process Of Designating Senior Advocates Inclusive, Reflects Bar's Diverse Strength: P&H High Court Bar Association Tells Chief Justice

The Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association (PHHCBA) has written to the High Court's Chief Justice asserting that the recent process of designating Senior Advocates was transparent, inclusive and reflective of the Bar's diverse strength.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court on October 20, has designated 76 lawyers as Senior Advocates, among those elevated, five are women. 210 advocates had applied for Senior designation in 2024.

Gagandeep Jammu, the PHHCBA's Secretary written on October 24, that long-awaited decision reflects not only the collective wisdom of the Full Court but also Chief Justice Sheel Nagu's sincere commitment to recognising merit, talent, and the professional excellence that exists within our Bar.

 "Your Lordships' thoughtful approach in giving due consideration to diverse fields of legal practice civil, criminal, constitutional, and other specialised branches has ensured that the designation process is both inclusive and representative of the Bar's varied strengths. The transparent and merit-based assessment undertaken by the Committee and the Full Court has further enhanced the confidence of the legal fraternity in the institutional process and in the fairness of judicial administration," it added.

The letter further stated that this significant step, taken under the Chief Justice's stewardship, stands as a milestone in the history of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. It will not only elevate the standards of advocacy but will also serve as a source of inspiration for younger members of the Bar to dedicate themselves to the ideals of learning, ethics, and service to the cause of justice.

The Bar acknowledged "with deep appreciation the time, effort, and consideration devoted by Your Lordships in examining the credentials of each candidate and in bringing this long-pending matter to its rightful culmination. The empathy and vision shown by the Bench in recognising the contributions of the Bar will further strengthen the relationship of mutual respect and cooperation between the Bench and the Bar, which together constitute the twin pillars of justice."