Supreme Court Reserves Verdict in Suo Motu Case on ED Summons to Lawyers

The Supreme Court reserved its verdict in a suo motu case on whether investigating agencies can summon lawyers for advice or representation in criminal matters.

A Bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and NV Anjaria heard Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who said lawyers deserve protection unless complicit in crimes. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra flagged misuse of the process against advocates.

The matter arose after an ED summons to Senior Advocates Arvind Datar and Pratap Venugopal, which were later withdrawn.

The Court indicated it may frame guidelines to safeguard the profession while ensuring accountability.