The Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed two Public Interest Litigation (PILs) that were challenging the Bar Council of India’s orders.
On November 12, 2024, the Bench comprising Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Anil Kshetarpal, dismissed PILs filed by the practicing advocates, challenging Bar Council of India’s (BCI) orders staying Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association election-related decisions.
Key Issues are:-
1. BCI’s Interlocutory Orders: Challenging BCI’s stay on orders restraining Vikas Malik and Swaran Singh Tiwana from holding office.
2. Security Concerns: Seeking continued security for petitioners.
3. Election Regulations: Directing BCI to prevent candidates with moral turpitude from contesting Bar Association elections.
Court’s Ruling
1. Moot Issue: BCI’s final order (October 28, 2024) rendered some prayers infructuous.
2. Alternative Remedies: Petitioners can file criminal complaints or approach Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana.
3. Security: Police reports indicate no threat perception; petitioners’ concerns addressed.
4. Expeditious Disposal: Court trusts Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana to decide complaints promptly.
The PILs were dismissed, with liberty to petitioners to pursue alternative remedies.