CNN Central News & Network India/ITDC India ePress/ITDC News/Integrated Trade. News : The Bar Council of West Bengal has announced a statewide strike in opposition to the draft Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025, expressing concerns over the government’s attempt to curtail the independence of legal professionals. The strike is part of a larger nationwide movement by lawyers’ associations against the proposed changes to the Advocates Act, which, they claim, undermine their rights and professional autonomy.
The legal fraternity across West Bengal, including district courts, tribunals, and the Calcutta High Court, will participate in the protest, leading to a temporary disruption in judicial proceedings. The Bar Council of India (BCI) has also extended its support to the movement, warning that the draft Bill could have serious implications for the legal profession and the justice delivery system.
Why Are Lawyers Opposing the Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025?
The draft Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025, proposed by the central government, seeks to introduce several new regulations that have sparked widespread opposition from the legal community. The primary concerns raised by the Bar Council of West Bengal include:
- Increased Government Control Over the Legal Profession
Lawyers argue that the Bill gives excessive powers to the government in regulating the legal profession, reducing the independence of Bar Councils.
The autonomy of lawyers in handling disciplinary proceedings and internal governance is under threat.
The Bill proposes stricter licensing and practice regulations, which many lawyers see as unnecessary bureaucratic interference.
- Provisions That May Limit Lawyers’ Rights to Protest
One of the most contentious aspects of the Bill is the proposed restriction on lawyers’ rights to protest or go on strike.
The Bill suggests penalties or disciplinary actions against advocates engaging in protests, which legal professionals see as an attack on their fundamental rights.
- Disciplinary Powers Transferred to Non-Judicial Bodies
Currently, the Bar Councils have the authority to regulate professional misconduct among advocates.
The new Bill proposes shifting some of these powers to a government-controlled tribunal, which the legal community fears will compromise the independence of legal institutions.
- Financial and Administrative Burdens on Lawyers
The Bill proposes additional fees and compliance requirements for lawyers, increasing their financial burden.
Senior advocates and legal bodies argue that these provisions will make it harder for new lawyers to establish their practice.
West Bengal Lawyers Mobilize Against the Bill
The Bar Council of West Bengal has called for an indefinite boycott of court proceedings, urging legal professionals across the state to unite against the proposed amendments.
The Calcutta High Court Bar Association has passed a resolution condemning the Bill and has urged the government to withdraw or modify its controversial provisions.
District and Sessions Court lawyers have also joined the protest, ensuring that courts across the state will remain non-functional during the strike.
The All India Lawyers’ Union (AILU) and other national legal bodies have voiced their opposition, warning that the Bill could set a dangerous precedent for legal practice in India.
Bar Council of India’s Stand on the Strike
The Bar Council of India (BCI), the apex regulatory body for lawyers, has also criticized the Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025, and expressed solidarity with state bar councils.
BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra stated that the Bill would “seriously damage the independence of the legal profession and restrict lawyers’ democratic rights.”
The BCI has demanded immediate consultations with the government before any further progress is made on the Bill.
The BCI has also hinted at the possibility of a nationwide strike if the government does not reconsider the Bill’s provisions.
Government’s Justification for the Advocates Amendment Bill
The central government has defended the draft Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025, stating that it aims to bring greater transparency and accountability to the legal profession.
Officials argue that the Bill is designed to improve disciplinary mechanisms and prevent malpractices.
The government claims that new licensing rules will ensure higher professional standards among advocates.
Regarding restrictions on protests, the government asserts that legal professionals must prioritize their duty to clients and the justice system rather than frequent strikes.
Despite these justifications, the Bar Council of West Bengal and legal professionals nationwide remain unconvinced, stating that the Bill will weaken lawyers’ ability to function independently.
What’s Next? The Future of the Lawyers’ Protest
The strike by the Bar Council of West Bengal is expected to intensify pressure on the central government, with potential legal and political consequences.
The strike could expand into a nationwide movement, with other state bar councils likely to join.
Senior advocates and legal scholars have suggested that the issue might be taken to the Supreme Court if the government does not reconsider the Bill.
Some legal experts believe that a dialogue between the government and legal representatives could help address concerns without disrupting the judiciary.
Impact of the Strike on Judiciary and Citizens
With courts across West Bengal shutting down due to the strike, thousands of cases will be delayed, affecting the justice delivery system.
Litigants will face uncertainty, particularly those involved in urgent legal matters such as bail hearings and injunctions.
Lower courts and tribunals will also be impacted, as a significant portion of judicial proceedings rely on active participation from lawyers.
Many legal experts believe that while lawyers have the right to protest, prolonged strikes could impact the credibility of the legal system and delay justice. However, legal professionals argue that this strike is necessary to safeguard their independence and ensure that the government does not infringe on their profession’s autonomy.
Conclusion: A Major Legal Showdown in the Making
The strike by the Bar Council of West Bengal against the Advocates Amendment Bill, 2025 has set the stage for a major confrontation between the legal community and the central government.
While the government insists the Bill promotes transparency, lawyers believe it is an attempt to curb their professional rights and autonomy.
The next few weeks will be crucial, as discussions, negotiations, or potential legal battles could shape the future of legal practice in India.
With pressure mounting from state bar councils, the Bar Council of India, and legal unions, the government may be forced to reconsider or modify key provisions of the Bill.
For now, the legal fraternity in West Bengal remains firm in its stance, determined to protect its independence and fight for a legal system free from government overreach.
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