A new petition has reached the Supreme Court. It asks the court to bring back stricter rules for Bar Council elections. These rules would stop lawyers facing serious criminal charges from running for office.
What the Petition Wants
The plea focuses on ethical governance. It argues for transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in the Bar Council. The independence of the Bar is also a key concern.
Changes to the Rules
In 2025, the Bar Council of India changed its election rules. The old rules disqualified any advocate with even one serious criminal case. These cases had to be punishable by seven years or more in prison.
The new rules are less strict. Now, a lawyer needs two or more such criminal cases to face disqualification. The petition challenges this amendment directly.
Why This Matters
The petitioner says the change weakens integrity standards. It goes against the goal of clean and fair Bar Council elections. Allowing candidates with serious charges undermines public trust.
People might lose confidence in the bodies that regulate the legal profession. The petition stresses this point strongly.
Additional Demands in the Plea
The petition goes further. It asks for new directions on candidate disclosures. Candidates should reveal their assets, liabilities, and income sources for the past ten years.
This disclosure would also cover family members. The aim is to ensure complete transparency from those seeking election.
Who Filed the Petition?
A Mohandoss filed this writ plea. The petition originated from Chennai. It now awaits consideration by the Supreme Court.
The legal community watches closely. This case could reshape how Bar Council elections are conducted across India.
