MUMBAI, MAY 27: Bombay high court has temporarily restrained Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal's (MCAT) chairman from renovating the advocates' room.

According to a petition filed by a lawyer, the chairperson, M J Borge, had converted the bar room into his personal chamber. He had also altered the room, removed cupboards, lockers and furniture, the petition claimed.

The Tribunal, a court hearing accident tangles, is situated near the Capitol Cinema in Mumbai.

The petition came up for hearing before the vacation judge, A Y Sakhare. The matter will be heard after the court vacations.

The petitioner has alleged that the bar room was altered on May 14 without obtaining a formal consent. Some of the lawyers had complained to the chief justice and the state home secretary.

Representations were also sent to Borge. The MCAT office spans over an area of 6,412 square ft comprising four courtrooms with attached chambers for the chairperson, three additional members and the registrar and the advocates' room. The petition alleged that the state government had indirectly allowed the conversion of the room under the guise of installation of computers. This alteration had adversely effected MACT's functioning.

Without a room to entertain their clients, lawyers claim, they find it almost impossible to discuss cases and other serious matters. Demolition of cubicles for women lawyers and lunch tables have also created problems.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.