The Bar Council of Kerala has issued a show cause notice to a newly enrolled advocate for allegedly uploading an Instagram reel that, according to the Council, undermines the dignity of the judiciary and violates professional conduct rules.
The reel, which has since been taken down, reportedly depicted visuals from the advocate’s enrollment day and included footage showing the official car of a Kerala High Court judge. The video, set to background music, prominently featured the vehicle’s Indian flag, Ashoka Chakra, the official designation plate reading “Judge High Court of Kerala”, and a clearly visible number plate.
According to the notice, the portrayal of the judge’s official vehicle in this context was “ill-motivated, malicious and mischievous against the judiciary.” The Council further noted that the act amounted to “advertising and soliciting,” which it deemed contrary to the dignity expected of members of the legal profession.
Citing potential professional misconduct, the Council has asked the advocate to explain within 15 days why action under Section 35 of the Advocates Act, 1961 — which deals with disciplinary proceedings against advocates — should not be initiated.
