12 Kolkata: Lawyers have written to the Calcutta HC Chief Justice, requesting him to "dispense with the mandatory wearing of robes/gowns for advocates during summer".
The letter from Bar Library Club High Court, Calcutta, Bar Association, and Incorporated Law Society of Calcutta refers to a report in TOI on April 10, 2025, saying, doctors have warned excessive sweating can create an electrolyte imbalance, which can affect the electrical impulse of heart and have serious cardiac consequences. "With the onset of summer, the heat and the humidity in the city have become unbearable. This fact, coupled with the extreme humidity, has been causing immense hardships to the learned advocates. We find ourselves struggling to cope with the heat and humidity while wearing the traditional black robes/gowns that are mandatory in courtrooms," the letter stated.
They also mentioned that the Delhi High Court has allowed it.
It went on to add that the corridors of "our great institute have become very crowded and wearing robes is also extremely uncomfortable and may result in several heat-related medical issues such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and acute dehydration."
The advocates said dispensing with robes or making it optional would also reduce health risks. "This would not compromise the dignity of the court in any way as advocates would still be required to dress appropriately in the black coat and band and maintain decorum while appearing in court," said the letter.