Judiciary’s Blue Eyed Boys Introduction The perception of the legal profession in our country has been evolving, yet shocking tales of malpractice and exploitation continue to surface. The situation raises serious questions about the integrity of judicial system and the responsibilities of its gatekeepers. Amidst rising fees and questionable enrollment practices, we find ourselves asking: how did we get to this point High Courts and the Supreme Court’s InactionOne of the most perplexing aspects of our judiciary is the apparent inaction of the High Courts and the Supreme Court. Despite numerous complaints regarding the conduct of Bar Councils and lawyers, no significant steps have been taken to address these issues. The Cost of Enrollment Enrollment fees have skyrocketed from Rs. 750/- to a staggering Rs. 42,000/-. This sudden increase raises concerns about accessibility and fairness in the legal profession. Everyone should have an equal opportunity to enter the field, but such high fees invariably exclude those from less privileged backgrounds. Lack of Oversight Enrollment committees, which are essential to maintaining standards in legal education and practice, are often non-existent or inactive. With no standard operating procedures in place, there’s a glaring lack of checks and balances. Anyone, regardless of their background—whether they’re auto drivers or local officials—can enroll, as long as they can pay the fee. State Bar Councils do not have any right to issued permanent enrollment to the law graduates who have not cleared the AIBE but State Bar Council like Odisha and others are not complying to the direction of the BCI. The Consequences of Neglect The failure of the Bar Council to enforce educational standards and promote quality legal education can have far-reaching consequences. When almost anyone can practice law without proper training, the very foundation of justice is questioned. The Erosion of Legal Standards The influx of inadequately trained lawyers into the system can lead to unprofessional behavior and poor service. Clients may find themselves represented by individuals who lack the necessary skills and knowledge, eroding trust in the legal profession. Sabotage of Legal Education Rather than fostering an environment that promotes rigorous legal education, the Bar Council appears to have diverted attention from critical educational frameworks. This not only affects aspiring lawyers but also compromises the quality of legal representation available to the public. Nothing has been done by the BCI or State Bar Councils to promote or regulate law education in the country as the approvals are given to the letter-pad law colleges without any inspection which are law degree shops. BCI never redressed any complaint filed against these colleges rather informed these colleges privately about the complaint filed by the law students who have punished by the law colleges BCI is nothing but the partner in crime of the education mafias of this country which are more dangerous than the terrorists. The Role of the Bar Council The Bar Council’s role is to ensure that the legal profession maintains a standard of excellence. However, its current practices leave much to be desired. A Call for Accountability The Bar Council must be held accountable for the way it manages enrollment and education. Implementing clear standards for enrollment along with proper oversight can restore the dignity of the legal profession in our country. Emphasizing Quality Education Promoting legal education should be a priority for the Bar Council. Workshops, seminars, and outreach programs could significantly elevate the overall standards and inspire a new generation of competent lawyers. Conclusion We find ourselves at a crossroads where urgent action is needed to rectify the issues plaguing our legal system. The time has come for the High Courts, the Supreme Court, and the Bar Council to step up, enforce regulations, and prioritize quality legal education and ethical practices. The way forward isn’t complex—it just requires a commitment to accountability and fairness. Our justice system deserves it, and so do the people who rely on it for representation and protection.
