Bar Council of India (BCI) Increasing Advocate Enrollment Fees to ₹25,000

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Bar Council of India (BCI) Seeks Supreme Court Nod to Raise Enrollment Fees to ₹25,000

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has approached the Supreme Court, seeking approval to increase the enrollment fee for new advocates from the current *750 to ₹25,000.

Background: Gaurav Kumar v. Union of India Case Law

In July 2024, the Supreme Court, in the case of Gaurav Kumar v. Union of India, ruled that enrollment fees charged by State Bar Councils must adhere to the amounts specified in Section 24 of the Advocates Act, 1961-750 for general category and 125 for SC/ST candidates.

BCI’s Rationale: BCI Advocate Enrollment Fees 2025

The BCI argues that the fees, set over three decades ago, are outdated. Citing an average inflation rate of 7.5% per year from 1960 to 2021, they suggest that the equivalent fee today would be approximately ₹50,000. Therefore, they propose a revised fee of ₹25,000 for the general category and ₹10,000 for SC/ST candidates, with provisions for future adjustments based on inflation.

Supreme Court’s Response: BCI Advocate Enrollment Fees 2025

Justice P.S. Narasimha questioned the Court’s role in this matter, indicating that such changes fall within the legislative domain. The Court sought the Attorney General’s assistance and suggested that the BCI engage with the government to amend the Advocates Act accordingly.

Implications for Aspiring Advocates

An increase to ₹25,000 represents a significant rise from the current fee. While the BCI contends that higher fees are necessary to address financial challenges and improve services, this move could pose financial hurdles for new entrants, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The BCI’s proposal to substantially increase enrollment fees has sparked a debate balancing financial sustainability with accessibility to the legal profession. As the Supreme Court deliberates and legislative discussions potentially ensue, stakeholders keenly await the outcome, which will have lasting effects on the legal community.