The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant warned about thousands of fraudulent people in black robes with doubtful degrees, urging the Central Bureau of Investigation to investigate the alarming situation.
In a stern observation that has raised serious concerns about the integrity of India’s legal profession, the Supreme Court expressed deep concern over the growing number of people allegedly practicing law with fraudulent qualifications.
The bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasized the seriousness of the issue, noting that there are “thousands of fraudulent people wearing black robes with serious doubts about their degrees.”
The court further suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) needs to do something to investigate the matter.
These remarks were made during the hearing of a contempt petition alleging that the Delhi High Court had delayed the implementation of guidelines for designating Senior Advocates. After hearing the main petition, the Supreme Court declined to entertain it.
The bench also delivered sharp criticism to advocate Sanjay Dubey, focusing on both his conduct and the language used on social media platforms such as Facebook.
Chief Justice Surya Kant reprimanded him by saying,
“Let people understand the kind of language you’re using on Facebook. I will show you what is the meaning of discipline in the profession,”
While Justice Bagchi questioned the purpose behind the “Senior Advocate” designation, asking, “Is a senior advocate tag a status symbol which is ornamental to be kept or for your participation in the justice system?”
In light of the court’s pointed rebuke both regarding his online conduct and the substance of his case Dubey chose to withdraw the contempt petition.