SCBA Expresses Grave Concern Over AP HC Judge's Custody Order for Advocate, Urges CJI Intervention

The legal fraternity in India has been seized with deep concern following an incident before the Andhra Pradesh High Court, where Justice Tarlada Rajasekhar Rao directed a young advocate to be taken into police custody for 24 hours during court proceedings. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has unequivocally expressed its “deep concern and shock” over this event, which has led to widespread disappointment among legal professionals, particularly young members of the bar.

Background to the Controversy: Advocate's Custody Order

The incident, captured in video proceedings circulating publicly, reportedly involved a young lawyer who had “repeatedly expressed regret and sought pardon before the Court.” Despite these apologies, the judicial order for police custody has raised serious questions regarding judicial discretion and the appropriate exercise of authority within courtrooms. This development has prompted both the SCBA and the Bar Council of India to take institutional notice.

SCBA's Stance on Bar-Bench Decorum and Judicial Authority

In a resolution passed by its Executive Committee, the SCBA underscored the foundational principle of mutual respect, dignity, patience, and institutional balance that must govern the relationship between the Bench and the Bar. Recognising advocates as essential officers of the court integral to the administration of justice, the association emphasised that while the authority and majesty of courts must always be upheld, the exercise of judicial powers must equally manifest “restraint, proportionality, fairness, and compassion.”

The SCBA further articulated that the