The Bar Council of India (BCI) urged the Central government to come up with a medical/health insurance scheme for advocates and their families, and to implement the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill. In a letter addressed to Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra highlighted issues that affect the welfare and security of the legal fraternity.
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NEW DELHI: The Bar Council of India (BCI) formally requested the Central government to introduce a medical and health insurance scheme for advocates and their families and to expedite the implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill.
In a letter to Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra highlighted critical issues affecting the welfare and security of the legal fraternity.
Concerns Raised by BCI
Healthcare for Advocates: The BCI emphasized that advocates play an indispensable role in upholding the Constitution and ensuring the protection of fundamental rights for citizens. Despite this, they remain vulnerable to health risks, as starkly evidenced during the recent pandemic when many advocates struggled with inadequate health coverage.
The BCI has been advocating for this issue for a long time and urged the government to address the financial aspects of such a scheme.
Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill: The letter also called for the swift implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill, designed to protect lawyers from physical threats and intimidation often encountered in their line of work. The BCI stated,
“Before the last elections, Hon’ble Minister Meghwal ji has already assured me to get it done. I urge the swift implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/ Act. Advocates frequently face threats, intimidation, and even physical harm while performing their professional duties. These challenges are not merely occupational hazards; they are affronts to the very essence of justice. The proposed legislation aims to provide the necessary protection, ensuring that advocates can discharge their responsibilities fearlessly and with dignity.”
Impact of Proposed Legislation
The BCI argued that implementing this legislation, along with a comprehensive insurance scheme, would significantly enhance the morale and security of the legal fraternity.
“The absence of adequate protections for Advocates is a paradox that undermines the very fabric of our justice system. While Advocates are referred to as officers of the court, they are often deprived of essential protections and benefits. Implementing a health, medical, and life insurance scheme and the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/Act would be a monumental step in acknowledging the sacrifices and dedication of the legal fraternity. These measures will not only uplift the morale of advocates but will also strengthen the justice delivery system in our country.”
Urgent Appeal to the Government
The BCI has urged the government to address these issues with urgency.
“Under the visionary leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister and your esteemed guidance, I am confident that the Ministry of Law and Justice will take the necessary steps to support the Advocates of our nation. Your intervention in this matter would not only be a recognition of the crucial role played by Advocates but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to justice and democracy,”
-the letter concluded.
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