SCAORA Raises Concerns Over 'Reels' & Social Media Promotion By Advocates, Urges CJI To Regulate Photos & Videos In Court Premises

The Supreme Court Advocates On Record Association (SCAORA) has written to CJI BR Gavai requesting guidelines on prohibiting to use courtroom videos and photographs on social media platforms by lawyers in light of the increasing trend of direct/indirect solicitation online. 

The SCAORA has flagged concerns over the use of videos of Courtroom Proceedings by lawyers and Advocates on Record as a means of soliciting work on their social media platforms like Instagram, X, YouTube and Facebook. 

Notably, in July 2024, the Bar Council of India issued directives and cease-and-desist notices prohibiting the solicitation of lawyers' services, either directly or indirectly.

SCAORA also stressed that such selective publishing of clippings of the proceedings may lead to a media trial, misleading the public on the accuracy of the facts of a case and a distortion of public trust in the Judiciary. 

The letter issued by SCAORA President Vipin Nair and Secretary Nikhil Jain, states : 

" There is a rising trend of advocates creating video reels, engaging in videography, and producing related content within the Supreme Court premises including in High Security Zones and subsequently uploading such material on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X. Many of these videos, although sometimes accompanied by disclaimers, often end up promoting the individuals concerned by displaying their contact details or conveying messages amounting to impermissible solicitation, which is expressly prohibited under Bar Council of India Rules."

" Such activities not only diminish the dignity and decorum of the legal profession but also risk eroding public trust in the legal system. This is particularly serious when Advocates-on-Record participate, given their heightened responsibility to uphold professional standards. Furthermore, there have been instances where courtroom clippings or snippets from live- streamed proceedings have been incorporated into these videos. Such practices can misrepresent judicial proceedings, undermine the sanctity of the Court, and spread misinformation."

It further adds : 

"These activities also interfere with the fairness of the judicial process by introducing external pressures, fostering a trial by media, and risking the distortion of court proceedings in the public eye. The sensational presentation or selective portrayal of court proceedings on social media can mislead the public about the facts and context of cases, thereby compromising the integrity of the adjudication process. Moreover, such conduct undermines the image of the Supreme Court as an institution and tarnishes the reputation of both the judiciary and the legal profession, casting doubts on the impartiality, seriousness, and ethical standards expected from advocates."

The SCAORA has requested the following from CJI Gavai : 

(1) Issue a clear and comprehensive guideline prohibiting videography, photography, and any form of content creation within the Supreme Court premises, particularly within High Security Zones, except as specifically allowed under the Supreme Court's protocols.

(2) Reiterate the prohibition of direct or indirect solicitation by legal professionals through social media or any other public platform, in accordance with Bar Council regulations.

(3) Prohibit the uploading or sharing of court proceedings or footage-whether recorded or via live stream outside the approved channels of the Supreme Court.

(4) Enforce disciplinary action against violations in a manner commensurate with the seriousness of the breach, with particular emphasis on the accountability of Advocates-on-Record. 

Click to read SCOARA's letter here