Advocates Storm Streets of Shivamogga Demanding High Court Circuit Bench

Advocates in Shivamogga, Karnataka, staged a protest on [date] demanding the establishment of a circuit bench of the Karnataka High Court in the city. The demonstration, organized by local bar associations, saw lawyers march through the streets, highlighting their long-standing demand for decentralized judicial infrastructure.

The protesters argue that litigants and lawyers from Shivamogga and surrounding districts must travel over 250 kilometers to Bengaluru to attend High Court hearings, causing significant delays and financial hardship. Similar circuit benches exist in other states, such as Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, to improve access to justice. A local bench would not only ease the burden on the principal bench but also expedite case disposal, they contend.

The protest underscores growing regional demands for equitable judicial resources across India. While the state government has previously expressed support for a circuit bench, no concrete timeline has been announced. The agitation is likely to intensify pressure on authorities to act, with potential implications for judicial administration and regional development. Further protests are planned if the demand is not met.