NEW-DELHI : The Delhi High Court has fixed March 21, 2025, as the date for electing new leadership across all Bar associations in the capital. The decision follows repeated postponements and missed deadlines in organizing the polls.
A Bench consisting of Justice Yashwant Varma, Justice Rekha Palli, and Justice C. Hari Shankar stressed the importance of a well-prepared electoral process. The Court noted that the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has yet to establish an Election Commission and that Bar associations require more time to secure a sufficient number of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for a seamless election.
Initially, the elections were set for December 13, 2024, as per an October directive. However, they were later deferred to February 7, 2025, and then to February 28, 2025. On Friday, the Court pushed the date further, citing the necessity for additional preparations.
The Bench highlighted that the final voter list for the DHCBA was published on February 14, 2025. As per regulations, a 21-day timeframe is required for further processes. The Court also addressed inconsistencies between the finalized voter list and the issuance of proximity cards, directing authorities to take prompt corrective action.
It was clarified that the February 14, 2025, voter list will be the definitive document for the elections. If a voterโs name is on the list but their proximity card application has been denied, the responsible agency must take immediate remedial steps.
Considering persistent requests for extensions and the upcoming Holi festival, the Court deemed it practical to conduct the elections post-holiday. This move aims to minimize disruptions in judicial proceedings and allow for comprehensive preparations.
Key directives issued by the Court include:
1. The DHCBA must form its Election Commission by February 22, 2025.
2. The Commission must present a full election schedule by February 24, 2025.
3. The February 14, 2025, voter list will be final, and proximity cards must align strictly with this list.
4. Elections for all Bar associations in Delhi will take place on March 21, 2025.
This ruling follows a March 2024 High Court order mandating that all Bar association elections in Delhi be conducted simultaneously.
