Remnants Of British Raj Must Be Shirked At All Levels: P&H Bar Council Chairman Urges Against Using 'Honourable' While Addressing Him

Chairman Survir Sidhu in his letter has stated that in documents such as misconduct complaints, election-related applications, representation from advocates, etc., the general public addresses him as 'Honourable', Hon'ble, and therefore has urged –

"To the general public and legal fraternity – such honorific titles or salutations are remnants of British Raj and must be shirked at all levels."

Citing Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Chairman said while celebrating such an event, the State Bar Council avows its resolve shed the shackles of the colonial past and move towards Amrit Kaal.

"Such titles don't define our sense of judgment or intent, please avoid using them in your pleadings or hearings before us," the Chairman said.

Furthermore, he stated that the office is directed not to accept such documents which refer to any prefix, and while objecting to the same get it rectified on the spot to avoid any inconvenience to the applicant.

It has also been requested to the disciplinary committees and quasi-judicial bodies performing functions under the Advocates Act, 1961, and falling within the ambit of the State Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana, and Chandigarh to follow suit.

As reported, the Chairman Survir Sidhu, aged 32 years is the youngest chairman of the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana and is the son of Punjab's Advocate General Anmol Rattan Sidhu. He was appointed as the Chairman in July this year.

Click here to read/download the Letter