The District Bar Association (DBA) elections for 2026 have entered a crucial phase, with April 9, being the last date for candidates to withdraw their nominations. The final list of contestants will be released on April 10 which would set the stage for a keen electoral battle. The election process gathered momentum after scrutiny of nomination papers was completed on Tuesday.

 

Not a single application was rejected ensuring that all candidates remained in the race, for now. Monday was the last day for filing nominations and a large number of lawyers had submitted their forms for key posts. A total of six candidates are contesting for the President’s post, while five are in the fray for the post of Secretary. With multiple contenders, the atmosphere inside the District Court premises has turned increasingly political. “Today is a very important day. Some candidates may take a strategic call and withdraw, which will change the contest completely,” said a senior lawyer present at the court. Another advocate said, “Since all nominations were accepted, there is a possibility of adjustments and understanding among candidates before the final list is announced.”

 

According to the election schedule, candidates can withdraw their nominations until 5 pm today. “After the withdrawal deadline, we will publish the final list on April 10,” an election official said. Voting is scheduled on April 24 from 10 am to 5.30 pm, while counting will take place on April 25. The results will be declared the same day. “With strong candidates in the fray, the real contest will become clear only after today’s withdrawals,” a lawyer said, adding that the elections are expected to be closely fought.