Center Withdraws Controversial Advocate (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Following Backlash
New Delhi 22 Feb ( Jobsoftoday) In a surprising turn of events, the Central Government has announced the withdrawal of the contentious Advocate (Amendment) Bill, 2025, just weeks after it was released for public consultation. The decision comes amidst a storm of criticism and concerns raised by various stakeholders, including bar associations and legal experts.
The bill, which aimed to introduce significant changes to the legal profession, was made public on February 13, 2025, inviting feedback from the legal fraternity and the general public. However, it quickly became a lightning rod for criticism, with many arguing that certain provisions threatened the independence of the bar and access to justice.
According to a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Bar Council of India by Dhruva Kumar Singh, Chief Controller of Accounts in the Ministry of Law and Justice, the government acknowledged the "number of suggestions and concerns received" regarding the proposed amendments.
"Considering [the] number of suggestions and concerns received, it has been decided to conclude the consultation process now," the letter stated. The government has assured that the draft bill, incorporating the feedback received, will be "processed afresh for consultation with stakeholders."
