Constitution Watchdog

DHAKA, FEBRUARY 27, 2026 —The physical breach of the Barishal Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court on February 24, 2026, has resulted in a total cessation of legal services, which Constitution Watchdog (CW) classifies as a "Constitutional Blackout." Following the arrest of Barishal District Bar Association President, Advocate Sadiqur Rahman Lincoln, under the Law and Order Disruptive Crimes (Speedy Trial) Act, 2002, the ongoing strike has entered its fourth day. This paralysis constitutes a systemic suspension of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed under Articles 31, 33, and 35 of the Constitution. The crisis, stemming from disputes over bail and remand protocols, has transitioned from a professional disagreement into a direct encroachment upon the institutional autonomy of the subordinate judiciary.

In light of the reported destruction of judicial furniture and official records, and cognizant of the contempt rule issued by the High Court Division on February 25, 2026, Constitution Watchdog is formally recording its institutional position on this ongoing judicial crisis. This organization calls upon the relevant judicial and administrative authorities to independently investigate all reported instances of procedural obstruction and physical intimidation since the initial courtroom breach. The independence of the bench is a non-negotiable structural requirement, immune to the coercive industrial actions of any professional association.

The abandonment of legal representation for litigants, particularly those from remote upazilas, signifies a breakdown in professional obligations. Licensed advocates possess no legal authority to suspend the machinery of justice for the purpose of political or professional leverage. The boycott initiated on February 24, 2026, represents a breach of the foundational Bench-Bar Social Contract. Consequently, CW formally petitions the High Court Division to exercise Supervisory Jurisdiction under Article 109 of the Constitution to issue emergency practice directions for the Barishal jurisdiction. This strike must not establish a precedent wherein judicial officers are subjected to professional siege to influence adjudicative outcomes.

Sustainable restoration of the Barishal judiciary necessitates an unconditional return to the courtroom, with all grievances redirected through appropriate appellate channels. Constitution Watchdog remains committed to the principle that judicial accountability is achieved through the application of law, not its subversion. Protecting the subordinate judiciary from coercion and ensuring the Bar adheres to established professional conduct are the dual requirements of a functioning legal system. CW urges the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and the Supreme Court administration to provide immediate security guarantees for judicial officers in Barishal to lift the current "Blackout" and restore the citizenry's access to impartial justice.

Nothing in this press release is intended to prejudice any matter currently under judicial consideration. Constitution Watchdog recognizes the exclusive jurisdiction of the High Court Division in all matters subject to its pending contempt proceedings.