Supreme Court Asks BCI to Consider AIBE Fee Waiver for Economically Weaker Candidates

The Supreme Court on July 18 asked the Bar Council of India (BCI) to explore a fee waiver policy for economically weaker candidates appearing for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE).

Referring to its July 30, 2024 judgment capping state enrolment fees, the Court said the ₹3,500 AIBE fee could burden poor aspirants, especially those from rural or district-level backgrounds. The court suggested creating a support fund.

BCI cited operational costs but agreed to consider a balanced exemption scheme. The Court noted the legal profession’s economic diversity and will hear the matter again in two weeks.