The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to take strict and immediate action against anyone—whether a lawyer or non-lawyer—who causes any disturbance during the upcoming Shahdara Bar Association elections scheduled for May 09.
The order was passed by a full bench of the Court consisting of Justice Prathiba M. Singh, Justice Navin Chawla, and Justice C. Hari Shankar.
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“In case any disturbance is caused by any group of individuals, either lawyers or non-lawyers, the police shall be free to take strict action to ensure that no disturbance or obstruction is caused on smooth conduct of elections,” the Court stated.
The direction came while the Court was hearing an application filed by Justice Talwant Singh (Retd.), Chairperson of the Shahdara Bar Association Election Committee. The plea sought a hybrid election method—both online and offline—due to alleged lack of security arrangements.
During the hearing, the Delhi Police informed the Court that full security arrangements would be in place on May 09 and 10. The DCP of the concerned area appeared before the Court and assured that the arrangements would be sufficient to conduct elections smoothly and safely.
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The Bench emphasized that the police are authorized to act against any individual trying to disrupt the electoral process. It also recorded the assurance from contesting candidates that they would fully cooperate with the Election Committee and avoid any disruption.
“All contesting candidates submitted that they shall cooperate in the peaceful conduct of the elections and ensure no disturbance or obstruction is caused to the voters or the Election Committee,” the Court noted.
The High Court also directed that lawyer-voters must carry their proximity cards and would be allowed entry only after verification.
In addition to on-ground security, the Court mandated full CCTV surveillance at the election area. One CCTV feed is to be provided to the concerned DCP to monitor and take action, if necessary.
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Regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the Court allowed the Election Committee to approach Delhi University or any other authority to arrange for the machines. Counsel for Delhi University confirmed that EVMs would be made available if they are in stock, referencing prior use in the Dwarka Bar Association elections.
“The Chairman of the Election Committee is directed to get in touch with the counsel for Delhi University for arranging EVMs,” the Bench instructed.
After polling, the Court directed that police officials shall be responsible for securing the ballot boxes.
On the counting day, the Court imposed strict entry controls inside the Karkardooma Court premises.
“Only the contesting candidates and one representative each shall be allowed inside the Karkardooma Courts. All others shall remain outside the campus,” the Court directed.
The petition was part of broader proceedings related to the conduct of elections in various Bar Associations under the Delhi High Court’s jurisdiction. Earlier elections were completed on March 21 for all Bar Associations, except the Saket and Shahdara Bar Associations, which were postponed due to various reasons.
This order ensures a peaceful and well-managed election environment, reinforcing that security and transparency will remain top priorities during the Shahdara Bar Association elections.
Title: LALIT SHARMA AND ORS v. UNION OF INDIA & ORS
