'Refrain From Strikes': BCI Appeals To Lawyers, Cites Law Minister's Assurance To Address Issues In Draft Advocates Amendment Bill
A day after the Bar Council of India expressed "profound concerns" regarding the Draft Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Council has now earnestly appealed to all Bar Associations and State Bar Councils to refrain from strikes or any form of protest over the issue."At present, there is no such need (referring to the protests) as the Government's approach is positive on Lawyers issues and...
A day after the Bar Council of India expressed "profound concerns" regarding the Draft Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Council has now earnestly appealed to all Bar Associations and State Bar Councils to refrain from strikes or any form of protest over the issue.
"At present, there is no such need (referring to the protests) as the Government's approach is positive on Lawyers issues and Bar Council of India's representation," the BCI council has said.
In a letter addressed to the Bar Council of Delhi, the Delhi High Court Bar Association, and all District Court Bar Associations of Delhi, the BCI stated that its meeting on Thursday with the Union Law Minister, the Law Secretary, and other senior officials from the Ministry provided substantial clarity and positive assurances regarding the genuine concerns of the legal fraternity over the proposed amendments to the Advocates Bill.
The letter further mentions that the stance of the dynamic Union Minister of Law and Justice was very positive, and he appeared to be supportive of lawyers in his approach during the meeting.
The letter adds that the Law Minister assured the BCI officials that all contentious issues raised by the legal fraternity would be carefully examined and suitably addressed before the enactment of the Bill.
“The Hon'ble Minister has also assured that no provision shall be passed into law which is against the interest of the legal profession or its regulatory autonomy…The Government has demonstrated a constructive approach and is receptive to our suggestions. Therefore, the need of the hour is to engage through dialogue rather than resorting to strike/boycott,” the letter further states.
In light of these positive developments, the BCI has earnestly appealed and directed lawyers to refrain from strikes or any form of protest that could disrupt the administration of justice.
Lastly, the letter states that the meeting of all the State Bar Councils is scheduled to be held on 23rd February 2025, and if the BCI feels that there is a necessity for any protest or agitation on any issue, it will give such call at an appropriate time for a nation-wide protest.
It should be noted that the legal fraternity nationwide, including lawyers in Delhi, has voiced its opposition to the draft bill and the proposed amendments to the Advocates Act of 1961.
In fact, the Allahabad High Court passed a resolution yesterday to abstain from judicial work today (February 21) to protest against the dwindling number of judges and the Draft Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2025.
[With input from Sanjana Dadmi]