"We Must Guard Against Attempts To Politicize And Divide Lawyers Fraternity": BCI Cautions Lawyers Against AAP's Call for Protests
As a response to Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) call for lawyer protests, the Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued a strong advisory, urging legal professionals in Delhi to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and caution.
The BCI appealed to the legal fraternity of Delhi to “resist the temptation of engaging in unwarranted agitation or succumbing to divisive politics”.
AAP had earlier issued an appeal to the legal fraternity of Delhi urging lawyers to protest against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
Sr. Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra, Chairman of the Bar Council of India pointed out that the High Court had validated the arrest of the CM by the Enforcement Directorate by refusing to interfere in the matter. Moreover, he raised concerns about the integrity of associated individuals, citing instances of fake degrees and corruption charges against AAP members.
“It is imperative to caution our esteemed colleagues in the legal fraternity against any premature involvement in this matter.”
The press release was directed to remind the legal professionals that they were “duty-bound to uphold the sanctity of justice, unaffected by external influences. Until a competent court pronounces otherwise, any sort of protest by lawyers would be unjustified.”
Regarding the arrest of the CM, the Chairman pointed out that “there seems to be no apparent basis for a lawyers' agitation” and that “we must guard against attempts to politicize and divide the lawyers fraternity staying focused on our professional duties.”
“It is to be noted that historically, lawyers' movements have often been rooted in just causes, defending freedom, upholding the constitution, and safeguarding the Judiciary or democracy. In times of peril to these fundamental pillars, lawyers, revered as intellectuals and these societal leaders, have rightfully protested,” the Chairman remarked.
In light of the imprisonment of several other members of the AAP on corruption charges, coupled with Arvind Kejriwal's own jail term, the BCI underscored the further need for caution.