Bar Council Of India Removes 107 Fake Advocates From Rolls In Delhi

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has removed 107 fake advocates from the Roll of Advocates in the State of Delhi.

The action is being conducted under Rule 32 of the Bar Council of India Certificate and Place of Practice (Verification) Rules, 2015.

Between 2019 and 23rd June 2023, several thousands of fake advocates were removed after a thorough investigation into their credentials and practices. These removals are largely due to issues of fake and forged certificates, and misrepresentation during enrolment. Besides, failure to actively practice law, and non-compliance with the Bar Council's verification processes also make Advocates names removed from the active practice.

However, with the amendment to Rule 32 on 23rd June 2023, the process became significantly more efficient. The Order of Supreme Court in the case of Ajayinder Sangwan & Others Versus Bar Council ofDelhi in TC(Civil) No. 126 of 2015 allowing the Rule 32 to be implemented effectively has enhanced procedures and allowed the Bar Council to identify and address cases of fraud and non-compliance a t

a much faster pace. This represents a marked improvement in the Bar Council's ability toprotect the public and the profession from unqualified /fake individuals, emphasizing the importance of the updated rules in safeguarding the integrity of the legal community.

The fake advocates are identified through continuous investigations conducted by the Bar Council and the High Powered Committee constituted by the Hon'ble Apex Court in case of Ajay Shanker Srivastava Versus Bar Council of India & Anr. in W.P. No. 82 of2023. Some of the cases relating to forgery had been under review before the rule change, while others were addressed after the amendment. These removals further underscore the Bar Council's long-term commitment to ensuring that the Roll of Advocates includes only those who are genuinely qualified and actively practicing.

The total of 107 latest removals reflects the combination of several hundreds ofadvocates being removed before 23rd J u n e 2023. 50 advocates have been removed after the amendment. This breakdown clearly highlights the progress made in increasing the efficiency and thoroughness of the verification process, thanks in large part to the June 2023 amendment.

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