J&K High Court Bar Association bans public from wearing lawyer’s attire in Court Complex
Srinagar, July 21 (KINS): The Jammu & Kashmir High Court Bar Association at Jammu has issued a strict directive barring clerks, litigants, and members of the general public from wearing the traditional black-and-white dress associated with advocates within the court complex.
In a notice issued by the Association’s Joint Secretary, Anshu Mahajan, it has been stated that any non-advocate found wearing a white shirt, black trousers, and a black coat will be presumed to be a tout. “No clerk, litigant, or member of the general public is permitted to wear a white shirt, black pants and black coat during their visit to the Court Complex. Anyone found violating the said notification shall be treated as tout and appropriate action under law shall be initiated, including the filing of a formal complaint,” the July 19 notice reads.
The Bar Association underscored that the black-and-white attire is a distinct professional identity of lawyers and should not be misused by unauthorised persons. The move follows rising concerns over impersonation and unauthorised behaviour inside the court premises.
Additionally, the Association directed advocates to ensure that their interns follow a proper dress code, including wearing a black necktie and avoiding the use of the white ‘band’ — a symbol reserved exclusively for practicing lawyers.

