During the hearing today, Justice Kant stressed that the matter is not an adversarial one.
However, he highlighted various malpractices by bar bodies including practices with respect to allotment of chambers to lawyers.
“What happens with too many demands (made by lawyers) is malpractices. Chambers are being sold in the open market. When I was Advocate General, I opposed tooth and nail a PIL for free land for chambers. But after my elevation (to the Bench), government itself gave (such land). Even in Supreme Court, there is scarcity (of chambers,” he said.
Since bar council positions are elected, those manning the bar bodies end up setting easy examination papers too, Justice Kant further stated.
“See even the exams they are conducting. Because of their popularity and they also want votes, the exam level is of matriculation. Something needs to be done, remedial measures are needed,” he opined.
Justice Kant added that in places where judicial officers enter the field without minimum years of practice as an advocate, their conduct in courts reflects the same.
Senior Counsel Arvind Datar and Shekhar Naphade appeared for various parties.
Source: Barandbench
