In the world of judiciary, symbols are very important. The platformed bench, the scales of justice, Lady Justice being blindfolded, Ashoka Pillar, black robe of a judge, white band of an advocate, the National flag and the solemnity of a courtroom are not mere formalities but have huge significance. Courtroom attire, in particular plays an essential but often overlooked role in reinforcing the severity of judicial proceedings.
The traditionally rooted legal profession has subconsciously ingrained the idea of appearance as an extension to decorum. A courtroom has been a place to resolve disputes by reason and not by force and get the sought-after justice and the attire of its officers- judges, advocates, interns and other court staff, sets the tone of that environment. Appropriate dress code is not just about personal style; it symbolizes neutrality, uniformity and respect for the rule of law.
The Advocates Act of 1961 empowers the Bar Council of India (BCI) to prescribe a dress code for advocates. Rule 7 of the BCI Rules under Sec-49 (1) (gg) specifies that male advocates must wear a black coat, white shirt, and white neckband, while female advocates may wear either saree or trousers with a white shirt, along with a black coat and neckband. Judges, too, are expected to adhere to specific dress norms, traditionally including black robes and white collars.
Significance of Black and White in Indian Courts
1. Symbolism of White: Purity, Honesty & Clarity
- Purity of Intent: White stands for purity, symbolizing the advocate’s duty to uphold truth and justice.
- Neutrality & Objectivity: It reflects a clean slate — a reminder that all parties are equal before the law and that the advocate must remain objective.
- Transparency: The color white evokes clarity and openness, both essential to legal ethics.
2. Symbolism of Black: Authority, Power & Discipline
- Judicial Authority: Black conveys dignity, seriousness, and authority — characteristics vital to the dispensation of justice.
- Formality: Black is a formal color, reinforcing the solemnity of court proceedings.
- Protection Against Bias: Traditionally, black is also considered to suppress distraction, allowing focus on substance over appearance.
3. Historical Roots
- The black-and-white dress code originates from British colonial influence, where barristers wore black robes and white bands.
- After independence, India retained this tradition, codifying it under the Bar Council of India Rules, giving the attire statutory recognition and cultural continuity.
Recent Challenges and Developments
Despite the importance of courtroom attire, modern challenges have emerged. Some lawyers, especially younger ones or those practicing in smaller courts, argue that the dress code is outdated or uncomfortable, particularly in India’s extreme summer temperatures. The COVID-19 pandemic brought further disruption. The Supreme Court, via its circular dated May 13, 2020, temporarily allowed lawyers to appear via video conferencing in “plain white shirt/salwar-kameez/saree, with a plain white neckband,” omitting the requirement for a black coat due to health concerns.
While such changes were pragmatic, they sparked debate on whether courtroom attire should be permanently relaxed. However, even amid these discussions, the consensus remains that court decorum — both in physical and virtual settings — requires a certain level of professionalism that attire helps uphold.
Judicial Pronouncements on Courtroom Attire
The judiciary has occasionally addressed the issue of attire. In Ajitsinh Arjunsinh Gohil v. Bar Council of Gujarat (AIR 1997 Guj 179), the Gujarat High Court reiterated that the dress code for advocates must be respected to maintain the decorum of the court. Similarly, in Dr. D.R. Tripathi v. State of Maharashtra (AIR 2005 Bom 41), it was emphasized that failure to adhere to prescribed dress norms can be construed as professional misconduct under the Advocates Act.
Such decisions reinforce that attire is not a matter of individual discretion but a professional obligation tied to the integrity of the justice delivery system.
Conclusion
Courtroom attire is more than a dress code—it is a statement of commitment to justice, discipline, and respect for the institution of law. As India progresses towards a more modern and inclusive legal system, retaining such foundational symbols remains vital. Appropriate dressing in courtrooms by judges and advocates is not just about appearance—it’s about honouring the institution they serve and the people they represent. The court, after all, is not merely a forum for argument—it is a temple of justice, and every temple demands reverence.
Contributed by: Aishwarya Sharma (Intern)