Bar Council of India Urges Lawyers to Hold Off Protests Over New Laws

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has requested all Bar Associations to avoid any form of protest at this time. The BCI assured that it will discuss the concerns of the legal community with the Union Government, represented by the Union Home Minister and the Union Law Minister.

Many Bar Associations and State Bar Councils have expressed strong opposition to the new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). They argue that these laws are more severe than the old colonial laws they replace and threaten citizens’ fundamental rights.

Notable legal figures such as Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mukul Rohatgi, and others have voiced their concerns. They have also called for a review of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Senior Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra, Chairman of the BCI, stated that the BCI will seek the help of the Union Minister for Environment, Bhupendra Yadav, to mediate. The BCI also asked Bar Associations to submit specific provisions they find unconstitutional to facilitate a productive dialogue with the Government.

The BCI recalled assurances from the Union Home Minister at the International Lawyers’ Conference in September 2023, where it was stated that the Government is open to amending any problematic provisions. The BCI will form a committee of Senior Advocates, former Judges, Social Activists, and Journalists to propose necessary amendments.

The BCI assured the legal community that their concerns are being taken seriously and there is no immediate need for protests or strikes.