The Bengaluru Advocates Association has formally opposed a Karnataka state government proposal to establish a circuit bench of the high court in Mangaluru, raising institutional concerns in a letter to the Karnataka High Court chief justice.
In its communication, the association argued against creating the additional bench, citing implications for judicial administration and the interests of the legal community in Bengaluru, where the principal bench is located and the majority of senior advocates practice.
Circuit benches allow high courts to hear cases in cities beyond their main seat, potentially improving access to justice for litigants in distant districts. Proponents of the Mangaluru bench say it would reduce travel burdens for coastal Karnataka residents who currently journey to Bengaluru for hearings.
Opponents within the Bengaluru bar contend the move could affect case allocation, professional opportunities, and institutional balance within the state’s judiciary. Coastal Karnataka has distinct linguistic and commercial characteristics that supporters say warrant localized judicial presence.
The dispute reflects broader tensions between regional development priorities and established legal hubs. High courts in several Indian states have expanded through circuit benches, but each proposal triggers debate among advocates concerned about career mobility and caseload distribution.
The high court has not issued a final decision on the circuit bench proposal.
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Sources:
https://www.livelaw.in/