Today, On 7th April, During a heated exchange in court, the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court told a Senior Advocate that he did not deserve the title after the lawyer raised his voice. The confrontation occurred during proceedings, drawing sharp remarks from the bench. Taking serious note of the conduct, the Court decided to escalate the matter. It ordered the lawyer’s name to be placed before the Full Court for reconsideration of his Senior Advocate status.
The Supreme Court slammed the district bar associations in Haryana, stating that lawyers’ chambers have turned into hubs for property dealers. A Bench led by Justice Surya Kant warned that it may order a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into their activities if necessary. The court expressed concern over the misuse of legal chambers, which should be dedicated to legal work but are instead being used for commercial dealings.
Today, On 25th February, Lawyers are set to go on strike on February 25 in protest against the proposed amendment to the Advocates Act. As part of their demonstration, they plan to surround treasury and registry offices. The legal community strongly opposes the changes, citing concerns over their impact on professional rights. The strike aims to pressure authorities to reconsider the amendment.
Today, On 24th February, The Supreme Court refused to hear a plea challenging the Rs.3,500 fee for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE). The court noted that it has already set limits on enrolment fees charged by State Bar Councils and the Bar Council of India (BCI). Imposing more restrictions could financially strain these bodies. The ruling highlights the necessity of maintaining bar councils’ financial stability.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) initiated a nationwide verification process for advocates in response to increasing cases of fake law degrees. This step aims to uphold the integrity of the legal profession by identifying and eliminating fraudulent practitioners. The BCI emphasized the importance of ensuring that only qualified and genuine advocates practice law in India.
Today, On 2nd January, The Supreme Court granted time to Mathews Nedumpara to reflect on his plea challenging the designation of Senior Advocates. Nedumpara had made various strong allegations against the institution, which the court described as “scurrilous averments.” The court asked him to reconsider his petition, allowing time for reflection. This matter involves a legal challenge to the process of conferring Senior Advocate status.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) approached the Supreme Court for permission to increase enrolment fees, saying it is facing a financial crisis. In July 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that State Bar Councils and the BCI cannot charge fees above the limit set by the Advocates Act. The BCI claims that the current fee limit is making it difficult for them to work properly. They have requested higher fees to improve their financial situation.
The Bar Council of India is a legally mandated organisation formed under the Advocates Act, 1961. The act also mentions the powers and functions of the Bar Council of India. Its primary purpose is to oversee and regulate legal practice and education in India. In addition, it administers the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) annually, which serves as a selection process for individuals seeking to practice law in the country’s courts. The Bar Council also fulfils the role of regulatory authority by establishing guidelines for professional conduct and etiquette within the Indian legal community. Its main objective is safeguarding the rights, interests, and privileges of advocates throughout India. The Bar Council of India operates as a statutory and regulatory body established by the Advocates Act, 1961, with responsibilities encompassing the legal profession and education in the country. It also serves as the representative organisation for the legal community in India.
