The Supreme Court on Wednesday opted not to entertain a plea concerning the mental well-being of lawyers, directing the petitioner instead to seek redress through the Bar Council of India (BCI). The bench, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and comprising Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, highlighted that such concerns also pertain to other professions, suggesting a broader approach might be necessary.
During the proceedings, the justices posed a broader question, “The union of India will say why only for lawyers? What about chartered accountants, engineers, doctors, and others?” This query underlined the court’s viewpoint that the issue of mental well-being extends beyond the legal profession and requires a more inclusive strategy.
Senior advocate Balbir Singh, representing the petitioner, argued that similar organizations like the Indian Medical Association already have mechanisms in place to support the mental health of medical professionals. Singh’s inability to persuade the court to take up the cause led him to request permission to approach the BCI directly.
The court granted permission for the withdrawal of the plea and encouraged the petitioner to make a representation to the BCI. The justices noted that the BCI, as the apex regulatory body for lawyers, is suitably positioned to address and potentially lead initiatives promoting mental health awareness and support within the legal community.
