New Delhi, February 18: The Coordination Committee of the All Bar Associations of Delhi has announced that its members will continue abstaining from judicial work on February 19, marking the third consecutive day of protest against the proposed Advocate Amendment Bill 2025 by the Government of India. Lawyers from all District Bar Associations participated in the work stoppage on Monday and Tuesday as part of their opposition to the bill.
In a unanimous decision, the Committee has confirmed that the boycott will extend through February 19, 2025, across all District Courts in Delhi. The Committee expressed that this protest is against the proposed bill, which they believe to be unjust, unfair, and biased. Lawyers have been encouraged to cooperate fully to protect the dignity and autonomy of the legal profession. Judicial officers are also requested to show their support by refraining from passing any adverse orders for cases scheduled on the protest days.
Advocate Jagdeep Vats, Chairman of the Coordination Committee of All Delhi Bar Associations, confirmed that during a meeting on Monday, the decision was made to continue the work abstention on Tuesday as well.
The Government of India has recently sought public input on the Draft Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which aims to reform and update the regulatory framework for the legal profession. The proposed amendments to the Advocates Act, of 1961, intended to improve the regulation and governance of the legal sector.
The original Advocates Act of 1961 was enacted to regulate the legal profession, safeguard client interests, and enhance the professional standards of lawyers. It established the Bar Council of India and State Bar Councils to oversee the conduct and discipline of advocates nationwide.
In a statement, the Ministry of Law and Justice emphasized that these proposed amendments are part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving fairness, transparency, and accessibility within the legal profession. The Department of Legal Affairs has proposed changes to address modern challenges and meet the demands of a growing nation. These amendments are intended to align legal education and the profession with global best practices, focusing on raising professional standards, improving legal education, and preparing lawyers to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving world.
Ultimately, the Ministry aims to ensure that the legal profession contributes to building a just, equitable society, and a developed nation. To this end, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, along with a comparison table of existing provisions and proposed changes, has been made available for public consultation and feedback.
