Kochi, March 30: A petitioner today approached the Kerala High Court seeking a change in the dress code of lawyers.
According to the petitioner, Vincent Panikulangara, a lawyer himself, it becomes very difficult for lawyers to wear the black coats when temperatures rise.
There are about 25,000 lawyers including 5,000 women, practising in various courts across the state. About 5,000 lawyers, including 1,000 women, practice in the High Court, where court halls are air-conditioned.
About 20,000 lawyers practice in the 80 other courts where no courtroom is air-conditioned, it was pointed out. In the mofussil courts, even power supply is erratic.
However, advocates have to wear black coats and bands to appear in court even during summer. During the rainy season also they face difficulties, he stated.
The petitioner wanted the dress code to be struck down and.
–Agencies