The Telangana High Court dismissed a constitutional challenge to mandatory welfare stamps on vakalats.
Judge / Bench — Acting Chief Justice P. Sam Koshy, authoring judge; Justice Narsing Rao Nandikonda.
Deciding Vijay Gopal’s WP 13352/2025 on 3 November 2026, it held Sections 12 and 12 A of the Telangana Advocates Welfare Fund Act within the State’s Concurrent List competence. The court found no conflict with central legislation or violation of Articles 14 and 19. The stamp was a statutory welfare contribution accompanying filing, distinct from eligibility to practise; amendments did not require fresh Presidential assent without repugnancy.
Advocates appearing — R1: D. Surender Kumar, Assistant Government Pleader for Home and Legislative Affairs. Other respondents: Not named in the judgment/order. Party-in-person: petitioner Vijay Gopal.