News: BCI withdrew its controversial order directing State Bar Councils to freeze enrolment of the 2026 NALSAR graduating batch.

About

• Nature: Apex statutory body regulating India’s legal profession.
• Established: 1961 under the Advocates Act, 1961.
• Basis: Recommendations of All India Bar Committee (1953) & 14th Law Commission Report (1958).

Key Functions

• Professional Standards: Prescribes ethics, conduct & etiquette for advocates.
• Legal Education: Recognises law universities/colleges and sets academic standards.
• State Bar Councils: Exercises supervision and control over them.
• Disciplinary Role: Exercises appellate disciplinary jurisdiction.
• Foreign Qualifications: Recognises foreign legal qualifications on a reciprocal basis.
• Welfare & Legal Aid: Supports advocate welfare and legal-aid programmes.

Significance

• Ensures professional ethics, discipline and uniform legal standards.
• Promotes competent and ethical legal practice and protects the autonomy of the Bar.