Bar Council Urges Immediate Action: Advocates’ Health & Life Insurance Scheme & Advocates Protection Bill Need Swift Implementation
Delhi, July, 8
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Bar Council of India, under the stewardship of Chairman Shri Manan Kumar Mishra, Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court, has issued an urgent appeal to the Minister for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal. In a letter dated 08.07.2024, the Council highlights pressing concerns affecting the welfare and security of the nation’s legal fraternity.
Advocates are the backbone of our democracy, entrusted with upholding constitutional rights and ensuring justice for all. Despite their pivotal role, many advocates face precarious conditions, lacking essential protections against health and life risks. The recent pandemic starkly highlighted these vulnerabilities, underscoring the critical need for a comprehensive health, medical, and life insurance scheme for advocates and their families.
The Bar Council has long advocated for such a scheme and welcomes the Ministry of Law’s proactive steps in gathering necessary data. However, urgent government action is needed to address the financial aspects, ensuring advocates have the crucial health and life coverage they deserve. This initiative would alleviate financial uncertainty, enabling advocates to focus on their duties without constant health-related anxieties.
Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra stresses the immediate implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/Act. Advocates often face threats, intimidation, and physical harm while performing their duties. This proposed legislation aims to provide essential protections, empowering advocates to serve fearlessly and with dignity. Coupled with the insurance scheme, this move would significantly boost morale and security within the legal community, recognizing their sacrifices and dedication.
The legal fraternity serves as a vigilant guardian of democracy, ensuring equitable access to justice for all citizens. Advocates interpret and uphold the law, safeguard civil liberties, and champion marginalized communities. It is imperative that their well-being is prioritized with the urgency and seriousness it demands.
Chairman Shri Manan Kumar Mishra expresses confidence that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji and the esteemed guidance of Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the Ministry of Law and Justice will take decisive steps to support the nation’s advocates. The Bar Council stands ready to collaborate further and extend support in this noble endeavour.