A group of approximately 150 advocates from the Bombay Bar has written to the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, requesting a reconsideration of the recent ban on single-use plastic bottles within the High Court premises.

They have urged a more gradual implementation of the measure. 

The advocates referred to a circular issued on July 24, 2024, which prohibits the possession of single-use plastic bottles and bags on the court premises to curb plastic waste.  

In their letter, the signatories highlighted the challenges faced by litigants, lawyers, and visitors due to the ban, noting that it has created significant inconveniences. They particularly emphasized the impact on senior citizens and litigants who travel long distances, many of whom are compelled to discard their plastic bottles before entering the court.

“This rule, while undoubtedly well-intentioned, has caused significant hardship to litigants, lawyers, peons, clerks and other visitors to the premises, and may in fact be counterproductive,” the letter stated.

The advocates further noted the lack of adequate public awareness regarding the plastic ban circular, pointing out that no clear notices about the new restriction have been displayed on the High Court’s website or at its entry gates to inform visitors.  

Additionally, they expressed concern over the absence of sufficient alternative sources of safe drinking water within the court premises, which has compounded the inconvenience caused by the prohibition of plastic water bottles.

"Litigants, members of the bar and others who routinely come to the High Court often spend long hours on the premises, and would need ready access to affordable, reliable sources of drinking water," the letter noted.

The advocates also raised concerns about the limited availability and questionable safety of alternative water sources. While a few water filters are present on the premises, they are often located outdoors, exposed to environmental contaminants like bird droppings, with no assurance regarding the quality of the water.  

The letter pointed out that the only bottled water option available is sold in 300 ml glass bottles at the Bombay Bar Association for ₹50 per bottle. This price, they argued, is prohibitive for most visitors, making it inaccessible to the majority.  

Ironically, the advocates highlighted that the ban has led to an increase in plastic waste at the High Court. Water bottles confiscated at the gates are collected in large numbers and discarded daily, thereby generating more plastic waste despite the ban’s intent to reduce it. The signatories explained that many of these bottles could have been reused multiple times if not confiscated.  

The letter suggested that a more effective solution would be to regulate the production and sale of single-use plastic rather than penalizing its possession.  

In light of these issues, the advocates urged the Chief Justice to revoke the ban on single-use plastic bottles and proposed the installation of more accessible and reliable drinking water facilities within the High Court premises.