Lawyers Cannot Be Compelled To Cease Work: Calcutta High Court Says WB Bar Council's Black Day Protest Against New Criminal Laws Not

The Calcutta High Court recently ruled that the Black Day Protest scheduled by the West Bengal Bar Council on July 1st to oppose the implementation of three new criminal laws is voluntary for lawyers. Justice Shampa Sarkar clarified that no lawyer can be compelled to participate in strikes, emphasizing their role in public service. The court emphasized that the Bar Council's resolution is not mandatory but a request, allowing advocates who wish to represent their clients in courts across West Bengal and Andaman & Nicobar Islands to do so without fear of coercive or disciplinary actions. The ruling ensures freedom of choice for lawyers regarding participation in the protest.