The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has urged CJI Surya Kant to initiate a fresh round of applications for the designation of Senior Advocates, highlighting a year-long delay and the need for transparency and regularity.
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NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has formally written to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, requesting the initiation of a new cycle for inviting fresh applications for the designation of Senior Advocates in the Supreme Court of India.
In its letter dated December 3, 2025 (Ref. No.318/SCAORA/2025), SCAORA noted that more than a year has passed since the last call for applications. The delay, the association noted, has caused concern among several eligible advocates and Advocates-on-Record (AORs) who regularly appear before the apex court and are awaiting the opportunity for consideration.
“As envisaged under the Guidelines, the Committee for Designation of Senior Advocates is expected to initiate this process at least once every year. This periodicity is essential to ensure regularity, transparency, and fairness in the procedure.”
the letter states
SCAORA emphasized that the conferment of Senior Advocate status represents:
- Recognition of professional excellence
- An important legal career achievement
- Encouragement for members of the Bar
- Upholding the highest standards of the legal profession
The letter reiterates that, as per the Guidelines for Designation of Senior Advocates, the selection committee is expected to initiate the process at least once every year to ensure transparency, fairness, and continuity.
Highlights from the SCAORA Letter:
- Over a year has elapsed since the last invitation for applications.
- Many advocates have been waiting eagerly for the next round.
- Regular and timely designation rounds reinforce merit-based institutional recognition.
- SCAORA urged the CJI to start the next round at the earliest in accordance with judicial mandates.
The letter was signed by Nikhil Jain, Honorary Secretary, SCAORA, on behalf of the executive committee.
SCAORA stated that a predictable, periodic process is crucial for maintaining:
- Integrity of recognition systems
- Professional meritocracy
- Contribution to the development of Indian jurisprudence
The association expressed confidence that the Supreme Court will take necessary steps to begin the new application cycle soon.
About SCAORA
The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association represents Advocates-on-Record practicing before the Supreme Court. The organization works to improve professional standards, support the legal community, and uphold constitutional values.
The SCAORA is a registered body comprising approximately 3,000 Advocates-on-Record, legal professionals specially qualified under Order IV of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013. These advocates hold exclusive authority to file and conduct cases before the Supreme Court of India, giving them a distinct and significant role in the judicial system.
SCAORA brings together Advocates-on-Record from diverse legal backgrounds across the country, reflecting unity, integrity, and a wide range of perspectives. This diversity strengthens its ability to address issues effectively for the benefit of all stakeholders in the justice ecosystem.
Founded in 1985, SCAORA’s first Executive Committee, elected at the General Meeting and led by Mr. R.B. Datar as President, laid the groundwork for the association’s growth. The committee included Mr. V.N. Ganpule (Vice-President), Mr. Kailash Vasdev (Secretary), Mr. Ranjit Kumar (Joint Secretary), Mr. M.S. Ganesh (Treasurer), and six members: Mr. K. Rajendra Chaudhry, Mr. Mukul Moudgal, Mr. Girish Chander, Mr. Raju Ramachandran, Mr. C.S. Vaidyanathan, and Mr. P.H. Parekh.
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