Containing COVID-19: Judge's Association in this State write to CJ and CJI Bobde over relaxation to Subordinate Judicial Officers from wearing Black Coats [Read Letter]

The Gujarat Judicial Officers (Retired) have came forward and formed a formal 'Association for Judges'  for the Judicial Officers, whether in­service or retired with aim to collect information regarding difficulties, problems, discriminations and issues faced by Judicial Officers and provide them with way of better representation before appropriate authorities so that their problems can be addressed and Officers can work under healthy, uniform working atmosphere and to bring feeling of respect and dignity among them.

The Association in view of the Circular order by the High Court exempting Advocates from wearing black coats and gowns for appearing before High Court of Gujarat and Subordinate Courts as well has now written to the Chief Justice of Gujarat HC and the
Chief Justice of India to place a similar order in facour of Judicial Officers as well as virus can be spread via them too so precuation should be in place irrespective of the designation.

He cited the Hon'ble the Chief Justice of India's decision to exempt Judges, Lawyers from wearing Jacket and Gown for the time being as it "makes it easier to catch virus".

However, the Gujarat High Court's decision to make Dress Code Amendments only for Advocates has painfully suprised the Association Member.

The letter in this regard read:

"We undersigned are painfully surprised that such precautionary measure of protection to Judicial Officers of Subordinate Courts, to contain spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) among them, is not considered at par with the Advocates while issuing this circular. This has brought feeling of discremination in minds of Subordinate Judicial Officers and their family members."

The Association though have requested the Gujarat High Court to be kind enough to direct the concern branch to issue similar circular and give relaxation to Subordinate Judicial Officers from wearing black coats as precautionary measure to contain spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19).

The directions shall assure Judicial Officers of concern towards their safety & security by the Authorityand result in bringing joy and comfort.

Read Letter Here: