Karnataka HC Directs BCI to Respond on Plea Seeking Dissolution of State Bar Council

The Karnataka High Court has asked the Bar Council of India (BCI) to respond to a petition challenging the extension of the Karnataka State Bar Council's term beyond five years.

Justice S. Sunil Dutt Yadav observed that Section 8A of the Advocates Act mandates the BCI to constitute a Special Committee and conduct elections if polls are not held on time before tenure expiry. 

BCI argued that Rule 32 allows an 18-month period for verification and six more months, making elections due by November 4, 2025.

The petitioner claimed the June 2023 extension lacked legal backing. The matter will be heard next on July 31. 

(Rahamatulla Kothwal V Karnataka State Bar Council & Anr.)