BCI Co-Chair Calls for Chairman’s Resignation
In a recent development, Senior Advocate and Bar Council of India (BCI) Co-Chairman YR Sadasiva Reddy has formally requested the resignation of BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra. In a letter dated August 22, Reddy urged Mishra to vacate his position within a fortnight, citing concerns about the BCI’s deviation from its expected standards under Mishra’s leadership.
Concerns About Mismanagement and Transparency
Reddy’s letter highlights several grievances, including the need for an independent audit of the BCI’s finances and a special council meeting. He expressed particular concern about a trust named “BCI Trust PEARL – First,” established during Mishra’s tenure, and called for a halt on payments from law colleges seeking BCI approval.
Controversy with NALSAR Students
The call for resignation follows backlash against Mishra for a letter threatening NALSAR, Hyderabad students with disbarment if they opposed Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant’s participation in their convocation. This directive, which was later retracted, was issued without council consensus, which Reddy criticizes as an abuse of power.
Allegations of Irregular Practices
Reddy’s letter raises additional allegations of nepotism and fund misallocation. He claims irregular appointments within the BCI, suggesting that several staff members have close ties to Mishra and were hired without transparent procedures. Moreover, Reddy accuses the BCI of inappropriate fund transfers to the “BCI Trust PEARL – First,” noting that approximately ₹150 crore was moved despite objections.
Impact on Legal Education and Governance
Concerns about the state of legal education in India are also central to Reddy’s letter. He suggests that colleges that should not have been approved continue to operate, thus undermining the quality of legal training. Reddy also points to key BCI-run educational positions being held by Mishra’s family members, suggesting an encouragement of factionalism within State Bar Councils.
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Long Tenure and Calls for Change
Reddy also criticizes Mishra’s long tenure as chairman since 2012. He argues that such extended leadership contradicts the rotational principle intended by Parliament for the office and raises doubts about the democratic process within the BCI.
Public and Institutional Reactions
The call for resignation is echoed by protests outside the BCI office and refusal by Student Bar Councils of National Law Universities to engage with Mishra. Reddy emphasizes the need for new leadership to restore confidence in the BCI, stating, “The Bar of this country deserves better than what it is presently receiving from its own Council.”
Legal Action
A petition has also been filed with the Supreme Court challenging Mishra’s lengthy tenure and requesting his removal. This legal action underscores the growing demand for governance change within the BCI.
