Introduction
On October 25, 2025, the Punjab Bar Council (PBC) communicated the decision to stage a province-wide strike for October 27, 2025. According to the PBC, the decision is in response to the “false cases unlawful raids wrongful detention” of Punjab's legal practitioners. The strike is primarily aimed to demonstrate the council's outrage for the “unfounded” criminal accusations. Council members take these actions personally, stating that they undermine the dignity and professional autonomy of the legal profession. With these actions, the PBC reinstates the council's commitment to the rule of law, maintains the professional self-respect of legal practitioners, and demands the immediate withdrawal of all legally unfounded cases against lawyers.
Why This is Important
Protection of legal practitioners
The magnitude of the strike indicates the legal community's outrage over being personally targeted and the imposition of an FIR, punitive, and administrative actions procedures.
Legal practitioners' self-confidence and the absence of punitive repercussions are necessary for passionately advocating on clients' behalf and to raise public interest issues.
Upholding the Public’s Confidence in the Judiciary
The strike is a response to wrongful actions against legal practitioners, and, more importantly, reveals a lack of constitutional guarantees to protect practitioners' rights.
Impact on Court Operations
The strike may lead to the delay and suspension of court proceedings, which directly impacts litigants. Lawyers might have to change the dates of hearings or tell clients there might be some court delays.
Professional Solidarity
The strike shows that the legal community stands together. Attacks or threats against one lawyer are viewed as attacks against the entire profession.
Implications for Lawyers
Be Ready for the Effects: During the strike, lawyers should anticipate delays in hearings or filings.
Communication with Clients: Inform clients of the likelihood of some changes to court calendars.
Documentation: Any unlawful raids, arrests, or intimidation should be documented; these might be useful in appeals or for litigation.
Track the Response: See how those in power respond to the strike; monitor for any changes in policy or case dismissals.
Conclusion
October 2025’s full-day strike by the Punjab Bar Council stands as a powerful message regarding the rights and independence of lawyers. It highlights the position of legal professionals in removing the rule of law and in the administration of justice. The PBC emphasizes that threats or undue pressure on lawyers are threats to the entire justice system. For the legal community, this strike serves both as a warning and a call to solidarity. It underlines that, in order to have a fair, independent, and functional judiciary, lawyers must be protected.
