After belly-dance at Kanpur bar event, J&K HC issues circular against vulgar displays at bar association premises

The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a circular to discourage any vulgar or inappropriate events at bar associations in the Union Territories.

The April 27 circular directs all bar associations across the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh to strictly maintain professional decorum and ethical conduct within and outside court premises.

The circular, issued by the Registrar General of the High Court, under the directions of the Supreme Court of India, follows a controversial incident during a Holi celebration organised by the Kanpur Bar Association on February 27, 2026. 

A video of the event, which went viral on social media, allegedly showed performances by cabaret style dancers in revealing attire, with some advocates encouraging and recording the acts.

Taking serious note of the incident, the Chief Justice of India directed that corrective measures be implemented to prevent such unethical, vulgar, or culturally inappropriate events in the future.

In view of this, the J&K High Court has now issued a circular on the subject. Bar associations have been directed to ensure that events organised under their banner uphold institutional decorum, warning that any non-compliance may invite action in accordance with law.

It has called on lawyers to adhere strictly to the standards of professional conduct and etiquette prescribed under the Advocates Act, 1961 and the Bar Council of India Rules.

The circular advises advocates to maintain dignity, sobriety, and propriety in all professional and social engagements, and to refrain from participating in or promoting any activity that undermines the image of the legal profession.

It adds that all lawyers are to refrain from participating in, promoting or associating with any activity, event or form of entertainment that is unethical, vulgar or culturally inappropriate, and which may undermine the dignity of the legal profession.

Additionally, bar bodies have been asked to conduct awareness and sensitisation programmes to reinforce ethical standards among their members.