Fri Feb 28 16:09:28 UTC 2025: ## Government Withdraws Controversial Advocates Amendment Bill Amidst Lawyer Protests
**New Delhi, February 28, 2025** – The Indian government announced the withdrawal of the contentious Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, on February 22nd, following significant opposition from lawyers across the country. The bill, intended to update the 1961 Advocates Act, faced criticism for potentially undermining the independence of the legal profession and the judiciary.
Key provisions of the withdrawn bill included a ban on lawyer strikes and boycotts, the expansion of the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) authority, and the inclusion of foreign law firms and corporate lawyers under the definition of “legal practitioner.” The government justified the proposed ban on strikes, citing the significant backlog of pending cases in the judiciary. However, lawyers argued that strikes are a necessary tool for voicing grievances and opposing state excesses.
The BCI, in a letter to the Union Law Minister, strongly opposed several clauses, particularly those granting the central government greater power to appoint BCI members and issue binding directions. Concerns were raised about the potential erosion of state bar councils’ autonomy and the undue influence of the government on an independent regulatory body.
The proposed expansion of the definition of “legal practitioner” to include corporate lawyers and foreign law firms also generated debate. While some viewed it as a necessary modernization, others worried about the blurring of lines between advocates and other legal professionals, and the potential implications for legal privilege.
The government stated that the bill was necessary to address contemporary challenges and align legal practices with global standards. However, the significant protests and widespread boycotts ultimately led to its withdrawal. The government has indicated that a revised version will be introduced after incorporating public feedback. Legal experts emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue and consultation with all stakeholders, including High Courts, before any future reforms are implemented.
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