High Court Registrars General to Notify Bar Association Presidents; Stakeholders to Formulate Terms of Reference
In a significant move towards fortifying the institutional framework of Bar Associations throughout India, the Supreme Court has embarked on proceedings aimed at enhancing their operational strength. This initiative, detailed in the judgment titled "Re: Strengthening and Enhancing The Institutional Strength of Bar Associations v. Registrar General," underscores the court's commitment to addressing the systemic issues faced by Bar Associations nationwide.
The proceedings, initially set into motion by an order dated July 16, 2024, called for the involvement of major legal bodies, including the Bar Council of India, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA), along with all State Bar Councils and High Court Bar Associations. The directive mandates that High Court Registrars General serve notices to the presidents of each Bar Association within their jurisdiction, particularly in regions with multiple associations.
The Supreme Court has tasked senior advocates and legal representatives, including Amicus Curiae Mr. K. Parameshwar and nodal counsel Mr. Vipin Nair, to collaborate and draft agreed terms of reference. These terms are to be circulated to the Registrars General of High Courts, who will further disseminate them to District and Sub-Divisional Bar Associations, thereby ensuring comprehensive input from all levels of the legal community.
The court has allotted a four-week period for the formulation of these terms, inviting suggestions from Bar Associations via a designated email address. This collaborative approach aims to culminate in an authoritative resolution that will be revisited in a subsequent hearing slated for eight weeks hence.
This initiative underscores the judiciary's proactive stance in fostering a robust legal infrastructure, ensuring Bar Associations are well-equipped to serve justice and uphold the rule of law effectively.
Bottom Line:
Supreme Court proceedings initiated to strengthen and enhance the institutional strength of Bar Associations across India, involving multiple stakeholders like Bar Council of India, Supreme Court Bar Association, High Court Bar Associations, and District/Sub-Divisional Bar Associations.
Statutory provision(s): Supreme Court Bar Association, High Court Bar Associations and District/Sub-Divisional Bar Associations.
