Supreme Court criticises Haryana Bar councils over corruption, hints at SIT probe

The Supreme Court has criticised district bar councils in Punjab and Haryana, accusing them of widespread corruption and unethical practices. A Bench led by Justice Surya Kant indicated that it may order a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into their activities, particularly in Haryana, where lawyers’ chambers have allegedly turned into hubs for property dealings.

“The offices and chambers of lawyers in these state bar councils have become dens of property dealers and corruption. They engage in all kinds of shameful acts and malpractices. We are aware of these issues and will not let them go unchecked,” the Bench, also comprising Justice N Kotiswar Singh, said.

The court expressed concerns about the misuse of bar associations, alleging that office-bearers were involved in malpractice, bringing disrepute to the legal profession. Justice Surya Kant observed that serious legal professionals were being sidelined, while the Haryana Government had “pampered” these bar associations.

The remarks came while hearing a petition related to an election dispute within the Karnal Bar Association. Senior advocate RS Cheema was asked to recommend respected members of the Karnal Bar to temporarily oversee its affairs. Additionally, the court issued a notice in response to advocate Sandeep Chaudhary’s petition, scheduling further hearings for April 15.

During the proceedings, senior counsel Narender Hooda highlighted irregularities in the election process. He argued that his client was unfairly debarred from contesting, pending an inquiry. The Bar Council of India (BCI) later stayed this decision. However, without prior notice, the high court overturned the BCI’s order on February 27, and the election proceeded the next day. As a result, four candidates were elected unopposed without a single vote being cast.

“This is what the Bar Council seems to be interested in,” Hooda said, emphasising the lack of transparency in the electoral process.

Haryana Tribune