Bar Council Of India Writes To CJI For Holiday In Courts Nationwide On Ayodhya Ram Mandir Consecration Day

The Chairman of the Bar Council of India, Senior Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra, wrote a letter to Chief Justice D. Y. Chandrachud, emphasizing the immense religious, historical, and cultural significance of the inauguration of the Grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The event, scheduled between 14th and 22nd January 2024, includes a 7-day agenda of rituals and events, leading up to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on 22nd January. The letter added, “The Supreme Court's historic verdict on 9th November 2019, which affirmed the birthplace of Lord Rama and allocated the disputed land for the construstion of the temple, resonated with the truth and beliefs of the Hindu community.”

It was further highlighted that, “The ceremony has garnered international importance, with approximately 100 dignitaries hailing from 55 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the America. This distinguished guest list comprises ambassadors and Members of Parliament from nations including Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan USA, among others, who have been extended invitations to the Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. A particularly noteworthy attendee is the Korean Queen, asserting her lineage as Prabhu Shree Ram's Vanshaj, a proud descendant of Lord Ram.”

Manan Kumar Mishra, in his letter, acknowledged the importance of ensuring the continued functioning of the justice system. According to him, matters requiring urgent attention could be accommodated through special arrangements or rescheduled for the following working day.

He emphasized that declaring a holiday on 22nd January 2024 would allow members of the legal fraternity and court staff to participate in or observe the inauguration ceremonies in Ayodhya and other related events across the country. This, according to Mishra, would not only recognize the profound cultural significance of the Shri Ram Mandir inauguration but also demonstrate a harmonious blend of legal processes with the cultural ethos of the nation.

The letter said, “In light of the religious, cultural, national, and international importance of this event, I humbly request your esteemed office to consider declaring a holiday in the Supreme Court, High Courts, District Courts, and other courts across India on 22nd January 2024. This holiday would allow members of the legal fraternity and court staff to participate in or observe the inauguration ceremonies in Ayodhya and other related events across the country.”

Mr. Mishra concluded the letter praying, "that you will consider this request with the utmost empathy and take appropriate steps to mark this historic oocasion in a manner that aligns with the sentiments of the people."

Earlier New Delhi Bar Association had formally requested judicial officers not to pass any adverse orders for the non-appearance of advocates or litigants on January 22, 2024.