Allahabad High Court urges young lawyers to prioritize case work over social media

Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal warned that incomplete or distorted information on social media could create unnecessary friction between the bar and the bench. He urged young advocates to focus on their studies and case preparation rather than chasing online likes, noting that they represent the future of the High Court. "Young advocates are the future of the High Court," the bench said, adding that senior judges and advocates are working to foster a supportive environment for them.

The remarks came as lawyers continued protests over an incident involving Justice Ajay Bhanot, who had asked a lawyer to apologise to a Superintendent of Police for objecting to the officer’s seating arrangement. The bar association claimed a separate chair was being reserved for police and high-ranking officials, and alleged that the judge threatened imprisonment and ridiculed a senior counsel. The association warned of a boycott of Justice Bhanot’s courtroom if no action was taken, and on Wednesday some lawyers vandalised his courtroom.

Justice Deshwal’s own courtroom has been unable to hear cases since the protest began. He ordered a review of CCTV footage to identify advocates involved in slogans, indicating possible disciplinary or contempt proceedings. On Friday, the court adjourned matters after advocates blocked entry, even preventing a government lawyer from taking a seat. During a bail hearing, a lady advocate was reportedly harassed and stopped from entering.

The bench condemned such conduct as damaging to the reputation and dignity of both the Bar and the Court. It stressed that judicial proceedings must not be stalled by a minority of advocates and that public trust in the High Court is essential to protect lawyers from harassment by criminal elements or unruly officials.