Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has confirmed that the Law Commission is actively working on the long-pending Advocates Protection Act, signaling a significant step toward safeguarding legal professionals. Addressing a gathering of the legal fraternity on Friday, the Minister also announced that the government has scheduled a meeting on December 8 to specifically discuss the issue of insurance for advocates.
Legislative Reforms and Consultation
Speaking at the Bar Council of India’s felicitation ceremony for Chief Justice of India-designate Justice Surya Kant, Meghwal highlighted the government’s commitment to legal reforms. He revealed that the Centre is currently examining potential amendments to the Advocates Act.
Addressing past concerns regarding these amendments, the Minister acknowledged that a previous draft had triggered significant opposition after being leaked. He assured the legal community of a consultative process moving forward.
“I have spoken to the Cabinet about further amendments to the Advocates Act, and we will sit with bar representatives as well,” Meghwal stated.
Context: The Push for Protection
The proposed Advocates Protection Act is a critical piece of legislation supported by a 2021 bill from the Bar Council of India. Its primary objective is to protect lawyers from violence, intimidation, and harassment while they perform their professional duties.
Key provisions under consideration include:
- Prohibiting violence against advocates.
- Prescribing strict penalties for offenders.
- Allowing advocates to request police protection if they face threats.
The demand for such a law has gained traction across the country. Notably, the state of Rajasthan passed a similar act in 2023, adopting provisions that prohibit violence against lawyers and ensure police protection mechanisms.
From ‘Chimney Light’ to CJI-Designate
While discussing policy matters, the Minister also paid a heartfelt tribute to the journey of Justice Surya Kant. Meghwal detailed the Justice’s humble beginnings in the small village of Petwar in Haryana. He recounted how Justice Kant studied in a government school, began learning English only in Class 6, and pursued a career in law despite initial objections from his family.
Highlighting the support Justice Kant received during his formative years, Meghwal recalled an instance where a senior lawyer personally drove him to Chandigarh to help him establish his career.
Concluding his address, the Minister recited lines he had written specifically for the CJI-designate, summarizing his resilience:
“Chimney ke roshni mein padhna, phir bhi lagatar aage badhna ye inki zindagi hai.” (Studying in the light of a chimney, yet continuously moving forward—this is his life story.)
