Uttarakhand High Court halts State Bar Council's hike in fee for filing complaints against advocates

The Uttarakhand High Court stayed the implementation of a State Bar Council decision to increase the fee for filing complaints against advocates. The court’s interim order came in response to a petition challenging the fee hike, arguing that it was arbitrary and would deter individuals from filing legitimate complaints. The petitioners contended that the increased fee violated the principles of access to justice and fairness. The court directed the State Bar Council to maintain the status quo until the matter is resolved. This decision underscores the judiciary’s role in ensuring that access to justice is not hindered by financial barriers and that regulatory bodies operate fairly.