The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has advised all advocates to maintain dignity, sobriety and propriety in all professional and social engagements, particularly in events organized within Bar Associations or under their auspices.
A circular issued by Registrar General, M K Sharma urged the need for maintaining professional decorum and ethical conduct among advocates. The circular follows a controversial incident in Kanpur recently that has drawn nationwide criticism.
A video that recently went viral on social media showed an event organized under the aegis of the Kanpur Bar Association, where dancers in revealing attire were performing while certain members of the Bar present at the venue were not only encouraging such performances but were also recording the same on their mobile devices, according to the circular.
The Supreme Court Women Lawyers’ Association, in a press release dated March 1, 2026, strongly condemned the episode, describing it as “shameful, reprehensible, and utterly disgraceful,” the circular said. Besides, the Chief Justice of India has also taken a serious view of the matter.
In its circular, the High Court noted that the legal profession is a “noble and pious calling,” entrusted with upholding the rule of law and preserving the dignity of the justice delivery system. Advocates, as officers of the court, have been reminded of their duty to maintain the highest standards of professional and personal conduct.
While the circular specifically advised advocates to uphold dignity, sobriety, and propriety in all professional and social engagements, especially at events organized by Bar Associations, it called upon them to refrain from participating in or promoting any activity deemed unethical, vulgar, or culturally inappropriate, which could undermine the dignity of the legal profession.
Moreover, the circular directed all Bar Associations within the jurisdiction of the High Court to ensure that events conducted under their banner reflect the decorum and prestige associated with the legal fraternity.
The court warned against any non-compliance with its directives saying the same may invite appropriate legal action.
“All Bar Associations within the jurisdiction of this High Court are also requested to ensure that events conducted under their banner uphold the decorum and prestige of the institution and the profession at all times,” the circular said.
“Non-compliance with the above may invite appropriate action in accordance with law. This Circular be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance”, it added.
