Punjab and Haryana HC’s relocation to Sarangpur: Bar Association defers vote

Additional Solicitor General Satya Pal Jain is learnt to have stepped in to push the proposal forward, with the Bar awaiting the central government’s response before deciding between expansion and relocation.

The high court has long grappled with space limitations, exacerbated by the daily influx of over 10,000 vehicles, including those of 10,000 lawyers, 3,300 staff members, and numerous litigants.

Two primary options are under discussion — constructing a six-storey block with three basement parking levels opposite the Bar Association hall, and adding approximately 16 courtrooms at an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore. This plan, however, requires Unesco’s approval.

The court has recently suggested adding more space to the existing premises by de-reserving forest land adjacent to the Rock Garden. It’s being said that this could provide ample space for both judges and lawyers.

A modern complex has been proposed in a 48.8-acre site with 42 lakh sq ft of built-up area, 140 courtrooms, and eight entry-exit points. However, the high court has expressed concerns about the traffic chaos on the road to Sarangpur, which could undermine the very purpose of relocation.

During a recent hearing before the Division Bench of Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Ramesh Kumari, it was stressed that any relocation decision must have the Bar’s approval through a general body vote.

Meanwhile, to ease immediate congestion, the court has directed the UT administration to complete a new kacha parking lot with green pavers within 60 days is expected to provide substantial relief.

A renovated Sector 17 building was recently handed over to the Bar Council for record storage, freeing up some space within the high court complex.

The current expansion proposal stems from a Public Interest Litigation filed by Vinod Dhatterwal, secretary, Punjab and Haryana High Court Employees Association, seeking the implementation of the stalled holistic expansion plan.