A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to the Bar Council of India (BCI) to amend the dress code rules and the Advocates Act to exempt advocates from wearing black coats and gowns during the summer months in the Supreme Court and High Courts. Advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi, who has been facing significant hardships due to the dress code, particularly the black coat and gown, initiated this plea.
The petition, filed through advocate Chand Qureshi, requests the Supreme Court to instruct the Union of India to establish a committee of medical experts to study the health impacts, work capacity, and quality of work for advocates, Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs), and other employees required to follow these dress codes in the summer. The committee is expected to provide a detailed report with recommendations.
The petition emphasizes that a comfortable working environment enhances productivity and efficiency, whereas uncomfortable conditions can lead to frustration and inefficiency. “Dress codes are part of working conditions. Uncomfortable uniforms may cause stress, anxiety, and unease. While dress codes symbolize profession and pride, bringing dignity and decorum, it is essential to balance symbolism with a favorable working environment,” the plea stated.
It further argues that wearing black blazers and long ceremonial gowns in the hot, dry summers of northern and eastern India, as well as the humid seasons of southern and coastal regions, exacerbates discomfort. Black absorbs all wavelengths of light, thereby retaining heat and causing additional discomfort.
The petition highlights that lifestyle, culture, customs, and food habits are influenced by geographic location, vegetation, and climate. The diverse climatic conditions across India necessitate reconsidering a uniform dress code. It contends that requiring lawyers to wear black coats during summer violates several fundamental rights.
