Bombay High Court Questions Legality & Funding of ₹5,000 Monthly Stipend for Junior Lawyers

A Bench addressed a PIL filed by 12 newly-enrolled lawyers seeking a ₹5,000 monthly stipend during their first three years of practice if they earn less than ₹1 lakh annually. 

The Bench noted the ambiguous legal clarity, despite personal sympathy. The Court asked: “What is the legal basis? Who will provide the funds?” The court noted that the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa has no budget, and implementing the stipend could cost about ₹155 crore yearly. 

The petitioners referred to similar recommendations by the BCI (₹15,000–₹20,000) and precedents in other High Courts. The Bench has adjourned the matter for two weeks, requesting clarity on any statutory entitlement or funding mechanism for such stipends.