Today, On 6th February, The Supreme Court directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure lawyer Mukut Nath Verma appears in court. Verma has allegedly made “scandalous and frivolous” allegations against Supreme Court judges and members of the SCBA election committee.
The Supreme Court heard concerns from Senior Advocate Dr. Adish Aggarwala about irregularities in the Supreme Court Bar Association elections, including alleged extra votes. Justice Surya Kant suggested waiting for a special bench to review the matter, emphasizing no immediate urgency. If proven, allegations could lead to election annulment.
Today, On 16th May, Kapil Sibal won the SCBA President elections with 1,066 votes, indicating widespread support from the legal community. His presidency is expected to bring significant changes. This marks his fourth term as president, with notable candidates vying for the position. Sibal’s legal career and recent political endeavours reflect his commitment to judicial and electoral reforms in India.
![[SCBA Elections] Kapil Sibal: "From a Refugee Family, Not From the Elite"](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DVDB.jpg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Yesterday (May 15th), six lawyers vying for the position of President of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) engaged in a debate, each presenting their case for why they should be elected to this prestigious office. Kapil Sibal a prominent voice at the event: “during my earlier tenures did I ever talk about politics in the courtroom? Never.”
Pradeep Rai, a candidate for SCBA President, excluded from the voters’ list, raising concerns about electoral fairness and transparency. The SCBA Election Body rejected his name, citing insufficient appearances before the Supreme Court. This exclusion, along with the rejection of 1804 advocates, calls into question the integrity of the upcoming SCBA elections, with potential ramifications for the association and Indian society.
On 3rd May: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) executive committee expressed concerns about the Supreme Court’s recent order mandating one-third of positions in the SCBA elections to be reserved for women. They objected to the order, citing potential negative impacts on the independence of the Bar. The SCBA has called for a meeting to discuss these issues and uphold the role of the judiciary in bar matters. The directive aims to increase gender diversity within the SCBA and ensure inclusivity for women lawyers. Elections for the 2024-25 term are scheduled for May 16th, with results to be announced on May 19th.