Bar Council of India Addresses Nation-Wide Protests Against New Criminal Laws, Initiates Dialogue with Government
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Bar Council of India, in response to fervent opposition from Bar Associations and State Bar Councils across India, has acknowledged and responded to their concerns regarding the newly introduced criminal laws. These laws, namely The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), have sparked widespread protests for being perceived as draconian and infringing upon fundamental rights.
Numerous representations received by the Bar Council of India highlighted the gravity of these concerns, prompting calls for suspension of the laws pending comprehensive nationwide discussions and parliamentary review. Key legal figures, including Mr. Kapil Sibal, Mr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Mr. Mukul Rohatgi, and Mrs. Indira Jaising, have voiced strong dissent, emphasizing potential violations of constitutional principles and natural justice.
After careful deliberation, the Bar Council of India has urged Bar Associations to abstain from immediate protests. Instead, it plans to engage in dialogue with the Union Government, represented by the Hon’ble Union Home Minister and Law Minister, to convey the legal fraternity’s apprehensions.
In a bid to facilitate constructive dialogue, the Bar Council has invited Bar Associations and Senior Advocates to submit specific provisions they find problematic. This initiative aims to compile actionable suggestions for potential amendments, as assured by the Hon’ble Union Home Minister during the International Lawyers’ Conference in September 2023.
Furthermore, the Bar Council of India intends to form a committee comprising Senior Advocates, former Judges, impartial Social Activists, and Journalists to draft proposed amendments based on the submissions received.
Emphasizing the seriousness with which these issues are being addressed, the Bar Council reassures the legal fraternity that immediate agitation is unnecessary. It seeks cooperation from all stakeholders to resolve these concerns through dialogue and legal channels.
For further updates and submissions of concerns, Bar Associations and advocates are encouraged to contact the Bar Council of India directly.
