The Delhi High Court directed the Bar Council of Delhi to conduct fresh elections, following categorical orders of the Supreme Court mandating the phased holding of elections for all State Bar Councils. The Court emphasized strict compliance with the apex court’s timeline, observing that elections must be concluded by 31st January 2026 and underscored the importance of adhering to democratic processes within professional regulatory bodies.
The present writ petition was filed seeking directions for the Bar Council of Delhi to hold fresh elections. The petitioner highlighted that elections of the State Bar Councils have not been conducted for decades in certain States, creating a vacuum in representative governance. Subsequent to the filing, the Apex Court passed directions in M. Varadhan v. Union of India & Anr. for holding elections of all State Bar Councils in a phased manner and concluding the process by 31st January 2026.
The petitioner urged the High Court to ensure that the Bar Council of Delhi complies with the Supreme Court’s directive and holds elections without further delay, stressing the need for representative governance and adherence to statutory duties under the Advocates Act.
The Delhi High Court took note of the Supreme Court’s order dated 24th September 2025, which emphasized that elections of State Bar Councils, if not held simultaneously, must be conducted in a phased manner, and any reluctance on part of the Councils should be reported to the Bar Council of India by 31st October 2025. The High Court observed that the Apex Court’s directions are “categorical and binding” and highlighted the importance of ensuring democratic representation within professional bodies.
The Court stressed that the Bar Council of Delhi must act in accordance with the Supreme Court’s mandate and ensure elections are concluded by the specified timeline.
The Court directed the Bar Council of Delhi to comply with the Supreme Court’s order and complete the elections of its members by 31st January 2026. The writ petition and all pending applications were disposed of, with the Registry instructed to send a copy of the order to the Bar Council of Delhi for compliance.
Case Title: Zahid Ali vs. Bar Council of Delhi & Anr.
Case No.: W.P.(C) 15216/2025
Coram: Justice Mini Pushkarna
Advocate for Petitioner: Adv. Zahid Ali
Advocate for Respondent: None
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