Sat Mar 22 06:29:51 UTC 2025: **Supreme Court Rejects Bar Council’s Challenge to Online Law Studies for Convicts**
NEW DELHI, March 22, 2025 – The Supreme Court of India ruled Friday that the Bar Council of India (BCI) has no authority to interfere in legal education, a domain best left to legal experts and academics. The court’s decision dismissed a BCI petition challenging a Kerala High Court order allowing two convicted murderers to pursue online LLB classes.
Justice Surya Kant, delivering the court’s opinion, stated that the BCI should not involve itself in matters of legal education and should instead support progressive measures. The BCI argued that allowing convicts virtual access to classes violated University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations. However, the Supreme Court questioned the BCI’s opposition to the High Court’s decision, highlighting the possibility of the convicts’ acquittal on appeal.
The apex court upheld the Kerala High Court’s order, emphasizing the unique circumstances of the case. The BCI’s plea to consider the broader legal implications was rejected. The Supreme Court’s ruling underscores a more progressive approach to legal education and access to justice.
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