The Gujarat High Court Advocates’ Association (GHCAA) has launched an indefinite strike opposing the proposed transfer of Justice Sandeep N. Bhat to the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The move follows reports that the Supreme Court Collegium is considering the transfer of 14 High Court judges across the country, including Justice Bhat.
Extraordinary Meeting and Boycott Decision
An Extraordinary General Body Meeting was convened in Ahmedabad soon after the news surfaced. During the session, lawyers expressed strong disapproval of the proposal and resolved to abstain from court work indefinitely. This decision has already led to adjournment of several proceedings, with further disruption of judicial work expected in the coming days.
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Delegation to Approach Supreme Court
As part of its resolution, the GHCAA will send a senior delegation to New Delhi to meet the Chief Justice of India and members of the Collegium.
"The association has decided to place its concerns directly before the highest judicial authority," the resolution stated.
The delegation will include GHCAA President Brijesh Trivedi, Senior Advocates Mihir Joshi and Asim Pandya, and advocates Hardik Brahmbhatt and Dipen Dave.
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Though no official order has been released by the Collegium, sources indicated that,
"only minor formalities remain before the transfer recommendations are forwarded to the Union government."
The possibility of Justice Bhat's transfer has sparked unease among lawyers, many of whom believe his removal could affect important ongoing matters.
The strike is seen as a rare and strong message from the Gujarat bar, highlighting the discontent within the legal fraternity. Until clarity emerges from the Supreme Court, court proceedings in Gujarat are expected to remain disrupted, raising concerns about delays in justice delivery.
