Ashoknagar Collector Undertakes To Build Lawyers’ Room In Six Months; MP HC Directs Separate Bar Room With Basic Amenities For Women Lawyers

The District Bar Association filed a petition under Article 226 seeking, among other reliefs, a suitable space and basic facilities for advocates practising before the Tehsil and Circle Courts at Ashoknagar, following the courts’ move to a newly inaugurated building.

The Collector initially resisted providing space, and the Court passed various orders during the proceedings.

On 29 October 2026, the Collector filed an affidavit undertaking to construct a permanent, “pakka” sitting space for advocates within six months.

The Association stated that this undertaking addressed its primary concern and did not oppose disposal of the petition on that basis.

Article 226 of the Constitution empowers the High Court to issue writs and directions, including to address the relief sought in this petition.

The Court also applied the Supreme Court’s direction in Sarika Tyagi v. Union of India, W.P. (C) No. 770/2026, order dated 26 October 2026, that a separate room with basic amenities be provided for female lawyers irrespective of their number in the court concerned.

The Collector’s sworn undertaking committed the respondents to completing permanent sitting space for lawyers within six months, and the Association accepted that undertaking as meeting its primary objective.

The Court therefore disposed of the petition on that basis.

It additionally required the respondents to account for the Supreme Court’s direction by providing a separate Bar room with basic amenities for female lawyers as part of the construction.

The respondents were also directed to provide a separate Bar room with basic amenities for female lawyers.