Victory for Justice: Centre Retreats on Controversial Advocates Act Amendments After Intense Protests

February 23, 2025 2 Min Read

The Union Law and Justice Ministry has retracted the draft Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, following strikes by lawyers and strong objections from the Bar Council of India (BCI). Initially published on February 13 for public consultation, the draft bill aimed to amend the Advocates Act, 1961, and was available for feedback until February 28. The proposed changes included allowing government-nominated members to the BCI, directing the Council’s operations, and regulating foreign lawyers and firms. It also sought to redefine “legal practitioner” to encompass lawyers affiliated with foreign law firms and corporations. Additionally, it introduced a provision to prohibit lawyers’ boycotts or abstention from court work.

The BCI, led by its chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra, voiced strong opposition, citing threats to the Council’s autonomy. Mishra addressed a letter to Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, arguing that the bill’s provisions could undermine the independence of the legal profession. The backlash has led the Ministry to terminate the current consultation phase and pledge to reevaluate the draft, addressing the feedback received.

In a statement, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement in shaping the bill, with the aim to align the legal profession and education with global standards. The ministry emphasized that the reforms are intended to tackle contemporary challenges, enhance legal education, and elevate professional standards in India’s legal sector.

Moving forward, the Ministry plans to refine the bill based on the extensive feedback and initiate a new round of consultations with stakeholders, to ensure the legal profession remains robust and effective in contributing to a just and equitable society.

Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/advocates-act-amendment-bill-withdrawn-bci-lawyers-protest-9850648/
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Publish Date: 2025-02-23 03:31:00