New Delhi, May 17, 2024: In a significant decision announced today, Chief Justice of India Dr. Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud stated that we have decided that the Advocate on Record (AOR) examination attempt in 2021 will not be counted as an attempt for candidates. The announcement was made during the farewell function of Justice A.S. Bopanna, who is set to retire next week.
The AOR examination is a mandatory requirement for advocates to be designated as an Advocate on Record and practice in the Supreme Court. The exam is conducted annually by the Supreme Court.
The year 2021 was marked by the devastating second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India, which disrupted normal life and posed significant challenges for students and professionals alike. In light of these extraordinary circumstances, the Supreme Court has decided to grant relief to candidates who appeared for the AOR exam in 2021.
“Considering the unprecedented situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the Supreme Court has decided that the AOR examination attempt in that year shall not be treated as an attempt,” Chief Justice Chandrachud stated during the farewell event.
This decision is expected to benefit numerous aspiring advocates who faced difficulties in preparing for and appearing in the exam due to the pandemic’s impact on their personal and professional lives.
The move has been widely welcomed by the legal fraternity, with many lauding the Supreme Court’s compassionate approach and recognition of the challenges faced by candidates during the COVID-19 crisis.
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The Supreme Court’s decision is seen as a positive step towards ensuring fairness and providing equal opportunities to aspiring advocates, even in the face of unforeseen circumstances like the pandemic.
Further details regarding the implementation of this decision and its implications for future AOR examinations are awaited from the Supreme Court.
