Kiran Raj

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has expressed its appreciation for the Union Government’s decision to revise the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, following extensive consultations with stakeholders from the legal fraternity.

In a press release issued today, the BCI commended the government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for its commitment to transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process. The Ministry of Law & Justice, after taking into account concerns and suggestions from advocates across the country, has decided to reconsider and redraft the proposed amendments before moving forward.

According to the BCI, this move underscores the government's willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue with legal professionals to ensure that any changes to the Advocates Act, 1961, align with the best interests of the legal community. The decision to revise the bill was officially communicated through a press brief issued by the Ministry of Law & Justice on February 22, 2025, and a letter (D.O. No. IC-14/2/2025-IC) addressed to the BCI Chairman.

The Council acknowledged that the Union Law Minister, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, has actively engaged with the BCI to address the concerns of advocates. The Minister has assured that no provision in the revised bill will compromise the autonomy, independence, or dignity of the legal profession.

The initial draft of the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, had sparked concerns among legal practitioners, prompting a strong response from various bar associations across the country. While the exact points of contention were not detailed in the BCI's press release, the Council confirmed that multiple concerns had been conveyed to the government.

In response, the government has now taken a proactive stance to address these issues and has assured that no amendments will be implemented without thorough consultation. The BCI lauded this approach, describing it as a reflection of the government's commitment to maintaining an independent and self-regulated legal profession.

Following these developments, the BCI has urged all Bar Associations and legal professionals to refrain from engaging in premature protests or strikes. The Council stated that the government has adopted a constructive and receptive approach, and that the legal fraternity should wait for the revised draft before taking any further action.

The press release also included an appeal to those Bar Associations that had called for abstentions from court proceedings. The BCI requested them to resume normal court work starting Monday, February 24, 2025, in light of the government’s positive response.

The Bar Council of India reaffirmed its commitment to actively engaging with the government to ensure that the final version of the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, adequately safeguards the rights, privileges, and independence of advocates. The Council assured legal professionals across the country that their interests remain a top priority and that it will continue to monitor developments closely.

Senior Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra, Chairman of the BCI, concluded the press release by stating the Council’s vigilance in protecting the legal community’s autonomy and ensuring that any legislative changes serve the best interests of the profession.

[Read/Download Press Release]