The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a circular reminding advocates to maintain professional decorum and ethical conduct, following a viral video showing dancers performing in revealing attire at an event organised under the aegis of the Kanpur Bar Association.

The Court noted that certain members of the Bar were seen encouraging and recording such performances, an incident that was strongly criticised by the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association as “shameful, reprehensible, and utterly disgraceful.” It also recorded that the Chief Justice of India has taken a serious view of the matter.

Emphasising that the legal profession is a “noble and pious calling,” the circular reiterated that advocates, as officers of the court, are expected to uphold the dignity of the justice delivery system both within and outside court premises.

Accordingly, advocates have been advised to strictly adhere to the standards of professional conduct prescribed under the Bar Council of India Rules, maintain dignity and propriety in all engagements, and refrain from participating in or promoting any activity that is unethical, vulgar, or culturally inappropriate.

The Court has also called upon all Bar Associations within its jurisdiction to ensure that events conducted under their banner uphold institutional dignity, warning that non-compliance may invite appropriate action in accordance with law.