LI Network
Published on: 26 January , 2024 at 10:07 IST
In response to serious allegations surrounding backdated admissions and the procurement of unearned degrees within law colleges, the Allahabad High Court has directed both the Bar Council of India (BCI) and the Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh (UP Bar Council) to furnish an approved list of law colleges operating within the jurisdiction of the High Court in Lucknow.
The directive was issued during a writ petition seeking the restoration of possession of a shop in Lucknow, alleging forceful eviction without legal authority by opposing parties.
The petition highlighted a surge in law colleges and their questionable operations, attracting lawyers with tainted backgrounds who often lack regular practice.
The Court observed that such individuals bring disrepute to the profession by engaging in activities inconsistent with professional standards.
The Court emphasized the importance of adhering to legal processes and underscored the petitioner’s faith in the justice system. Additionally, it directed the inclusion of the District Magistrate and Additional District Magistrate as respondents in the case.
Furthermore, the Court noted the consolidation of several related writ petitions, including Public Interest Litigations, and directed them to be heard by a designated Bench presided over by one of the judges.
In light of these concerns, the Court instructed the Bar Council of India and the Bar Council of U.P. to provide a list of law colleges approved by the former to operate within the territorial jurisdiction of the High Court in Lucknow.
This list should include details such as the start date of studies, annual admissions, and whether these colleges are obliged to inform the affiliated university about enrolled students.
The directive comes amidst ongoing considerations in certain writ petitions and public interest litigation concerning court functioning and professional conduct standards for Advocates.
The Court also acknowledged the monitoring role of the Special Cell established by the Commissioner of Police, Lucknow, tasked with overseeing complaints or criminal cases related to land/house grabbing involving individuals claiming to be Advocates.
The Court emphasized its intention to identify wrongdoers within the legal fraternity without unfairly targeting innocent lawyers.