Cuttack: An Advocate was fined Rs 500 for not wearing a neckband while appearing in a virtual court in Odisha.
While the Orissa High Court directed the Advocate to deposit the fined amount with the Welfare Fund of High Court Bar Association and produce the receipt, the matter will be heard again in the HC on February 22, 2021.
Orissa HC Judge Justice SK Panigrahi stated in the order, “Every profession has certain dress code and people belong to particular profession are recognized by their attires. The lawyers’ dress code is governed by the rules prescribed under the Advocates Act, 1961, making it mandatory for lawyers to wear black robe or coat with white shirt and white neck band. The Rule framed under Section 49(1)(gg) of the Advocates Act, 1961 prescribes the dress code for Advocates irrespective of designated Senior Advocates or other Advocates.”
“The profession is solemn in nature and its profundity is complemented by its attire. Being an Advocate, he is expected to appear before the Court in a dignified manner with proper dress, even if it is a virtual mode,” the order said.