Supreme Court Mulls Guidelines To Strengthen & Streamline Functioning Of Bar Associations Across Country

In a recent development, the Supreme Court has taken up the issue of strengthening and enhancing the overall functioning of Bar Associations across the country. 

The order dated March 4, passed by Bench of Justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta, called on senior counsels appearing in the case before it as well as those who were willing to assist to formulate issues that would require consideration.

The matter, originally pertaining to allegations of discrimination and elitism against the Madras Bar Association, turned a new leaf as Senior Counsels appearing for the petitioners stated on instruction that they did not want to press the allegations made against Senior Advocate PH Pandian (since deceased), or the Madras Bar Association. They further expressed that the petitioners were willing to unconditionally withdraw all allegations.

Taking into account the same as well as a submission that purpose behind the petitions was to seek uniform guidelines for strengthening of Bar Associations across the country, the Court issued notice, which was accepted on behalf of Madras Bar Association.

"Issue notice for the limited purpose of laying down the broad guidelines that may be followed for strengthening and enhancing the status and streamlining the overall functioning of Bar Associations throughout the country, returnable on 08.04.2024", read the order.

The case title, as agreed, shall now be In Re: Strengthening of the Institution of Bar Associations. The petitioners will move apt applications for impleading of other necessary respondents in two weeks. 

Click here to read the order