Delhi High Court Bar Association to Boycott Work Over Proposed Pecuniary Jurisdiction Hike
Cause Title: Delhi High Court Bar Association vs. Proposal to Raise Pecuniary Jurisdiction of District Courts
Background
The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has decided to abstain from work on May 25 in protest against the proposal to increase the pecuniary jurisdiction of district courts from ₹2 crores to ₹20 crores. This move comes after the Coordination Committee of the All District Courts Bar Association of Delhi wrote to Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and members of the Law Commission in May 2025, requesting the enhancement of pecuniary jurisdiction.
Court's Observation
A committee of Delhi High Court judges was constituted to consider the issue, interact with stakeholders, and make recommendations. However, the DHCBA has been opposing this move. On January 24, the Registrar General of the High Court invited a few representatives to participate in a meeting with the judges’ committee.
Decision
The DHCBA's decision to abstain from work is a direct response to the proposed hike in pecuniary jurisdiction. The association has been vocal about its opposition to the move, which it believes will have significant implications for the functioning of district courts.
Key Points
- The proposed hike in pecuniary jurisdiction is from ₹2 crores to ₹20 crores.
- The Coordination Committee of the All District Courts Bar Association of Delhi requested the enhancement in May 2025.
- A committee of Delhi High Court judges was constituted to consider the issue and make recommendations.
- The DHCBA has been opposing the move and has decided to abstain from work on May 25.
Significance
The proposed hike in pecuniary jurisdiction has significant implications for the functioning of district courts. The DHCBA's opposition to the move highlights the need for careful consideration of the potential consequences of such a change. The decision to abstain from work on May 25 is a strong statement of the association's stance on the issue.