Supreme Court Seeks Centre & Bar Council’s Response On Plea For Mechanism To Address Breach Of Lawyers’ Privileges

The Supreme Court has issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a proper grievance redressal system to address complaints related to the violation of lawyers’ privileges.

The petition, filed by Advocate Aaditya Gore, argues that currently there is no uniform mechanism under the Advocates Act, 1961 to protect lawyers from police harassment, threats, or undue interference while performing their professional duties. It points out several incidents where lawyers were allegedly targeted or summoned improperly by investigative agencies.

The PIL urges the Court to direct the Bar Council of India (BCI) to frame rules under Section 7(d) of the Advocates Act, which empowers it to safeguard the rights, privileges, and interests of advocates. It also seeks the formation of a complaint committee under Section 10(3) of the Act to ensure transparent handling of such cases.

The Supreme Court bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta has clubbed the plea with a suo motu case already being heard on similar issues—where agencies have summoned lawyers for legal advice given to clients.

The Court has sought responses from both the Central Government and the Bar Council of India before proceeding further.

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Hearing Date: July 15, 2025
Key Issue: Absence of a grievance redressal mechanism for breach of lawyer-client privilege and harassment of advocates
Legal Provisions Cited: Sections 7(d) & 10(3) of the Advocates Act, 1961