BCI Raises Strong Objections to the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Citing Threats to Autonomy

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has strongly opposed the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, arguing that several provisions threaten its autonomy and independence. 

Key concerns include the government's power to nominate members to BCI, control over foreign law firms, and binding directions from the Central Government. 

The bill also criminalises lawyer strikes, alters enrollment fee structures, weakens advocate protections, and expands legal practitioner definitions, potentially creating regulatory loopholes. 

BCI warns of nationwide protests and legal challenges if these provisions remain unchanged, urging amendments to uphold the self-regulation of the legal profession.