Delhi High Court Bar Association Calls For Work Abstention Over Jurisdiction Proposal

The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) called on its members to abstain from work on July 14, 2026, to protest a proposal that would increase the pecuniary jurisdiction of Delhi’s district courts. The protest highlights an ongoing division within the legal community in Delhi.

The controversial proposal aims to raise the pecuniary jurisdiction of the district courts from the current limit of ₹2 crore to ₹10 crore. Under the current system, civil disputes valued above ₹2 crore are heard by the Delhi High Court, while those valued below that threshold fall under the district courts. If the new proposal is implemented, district courts would be empowered to hear civil suits valued up to ₹10 crore.

The DHCBA's executive committee unanimously adopted a resolution to call for the work abstention during an emergent meeting. The association explained that the decision was made in light of the Full Court of the Delhi High Court's stand on the proposal, which was maintained despite the bar association's strong opposition.

In its resolution, the DHCBA executive committee detailed the adverse consequences they believe the move would bring. The association stated that the proposed enhancement would have far-reaching ramifications on the justice delivery system. Additionally, the committee expressed that the shift would substantially affect the practice and livelihood of a large number of DHCBA members.

The proposal has revived a long-running debate within Delhi's legal fraternity. While district court lawyers have actively sought an increase in the jurisdictional limit, the DHCBA has remained opposed. The planned abstention from work on July 14, 2026, is the association's direct response to the proposed changes.