The Orissa High Court on 15th February imposed an Rs. 500 fine on an advocate for not wearing a Neck Band while arguing before the Court in virtual mode. Justice S. K. Panigrahi while hearing the case of Bijaya Majhi v. the State of Orissa, stated that a profession’s profundity is complimented by its uniform (this can even influence people to this profession), and so the advocates are expected to appear before the Court in a dignified manner with the proper attire, even in virtual mode.
The Court also noted that the lawyers’ dress code is governed by the rules prescribed in the Advocates Act, 1961, which makes it mandatory for lawyers to wear a black robe or coat with a white shirt and white neckband. Section 49 (1) (gg) of the Advocates Act, 1961 also stated that the dress code is imposed on all lawyers irrespective of them being Senior Advocates or other Advocates.