Gujarat HC lawyers protest proposed transfer of Justice Sandeep Bhatt

The Gujarat High Court Advocates’ Association (GHCAA) announced a boycott of court proceedings from Tuesday in protest against the proposed transfer of Justice Sandeep N Bhatt. Justice Bhatt, known for ordering the installation of CCTV cameras across court registries and raising questions about registry operations, has sparked strong reactions within Gujarat’s legal community.

His measures were seen as an effort to increase transparency and accountability within the high court, and many lawyers viewed his strict approach as necessary to streamline administrative processes.

During a meeting of the GHCAA on Tuesday, more than 500 lawyers attended, expressing intense anger over the proposed transfer. Under the leadership of Association President Brijesh Trivedi, members resolved to stay away from court work indefinitely. Lawyers denounced internal politics, groupism, and power games within the high court, calling the transfer “an injustice to Gujarat’s judiciary”.

Several members highlighted that such transfers could affect the morale of judges and the smooth functioning of the court, arguing that administrative decisions should not undermine judicial independence.

Justice Bhatt among 14 judges proposed for transfer

The Supreme Court has proposed the transfer of 14 High Court judges nationwide. Justice Bhatt is slated for transfer to the Madhya Pradesh High Court, while Justice C Manavendranath Roy is proposed to move to the Andhra Pradesh High Court. The decision has provoked sharp opposition in Gujarat’s judicial circles.

Background of Justice Bhatt’s transfer

In late 2023, Justice Bhatt criticised the Registrar (IT) and other officials for delaying the implementation of a High Court order regarding CCTV installations, calling the obstruction “deliberate” and highlighting bureaucratic red tape. His order was subsequently challenged by the Registrar General before a division bench, which quashed the order just yesterday. Reports of his proposed transfer emerged soon after. The announcement quickly became a topic of intense debate within legal circles, with many expressing concern over the timing and rationale behind the decision, especially given the recent quashing of his order.

Committee to approach top judiciary

The GHCAA has formed a six-member committee—including Trivedi, Senior Advocate Asim Pandya, Bhargav Bhatt, and Advocate B M Mangukiya—to approach the Chief Justice of India and the Collegium, seeking immediate cancellation of the transfer. Lawyers have described the next two days as crucial in the escalating dispute.

Lower court lawyers may join protests

Anil C Kella, Gujarat Bar Council Finance Committee Chairman, said that most of the 272 bar associations in lower courts across the state are likely to support the GHCAA strike. Strategies for extending the protest will be finalised in the coming days, reflecting widespread anger among lawyers at both high and lower court levels.