Supreme Court Advocates Inclusive Representation for Persons with Disabilities in Bar Council Elections

The Supreme Court of India has emphasized the need for inclusivity and a humane approach in institutional decision-making. The Court issued notice in a plea seeking reservation for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in State Bar Council elections.

Case Details

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard the petition filed by S. M. Vetrivel, seeking 4% reservation for advocates with disabilities in the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu elections. The Court noted that the representation of PwDs would strengthen the legal profession and enhance the humane character of Bar institutions.

Arguments & Submissions

• BCI Chairperson Senior Advocate Manan Kumar Mishra opposed the plea, citing the minimal population of PwDs among advocates and the practical difficulty of allotting seats in councils of limited strength.

• Senior Advocate S. Prabhakaran, Vice Chairperson of BCI, raised concerns that other marginalized groups, such as transgender advocates, might seek similar representation.

• CJI Surya Kant emphasized that even one representative would meaningfully advance inclusivity and strengthen the institution’s humane ethos.

• Senior Advocate Indira Jaising, representing the petitioners, referred to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, highlighting a statutory basis for reservations and raised concerns regarding exorbitant nomination fees.

• Solicitor General Tushar Mehta noted that PwDs are already being empanelled as government counsels, which the CJI appreciated as a step towards inclusive practices.

Court Directions

The Court directed the Bar Council of India (BCI) to hold consultations and place a proposal before the bench before the declaration of elections. The matter is listed for further hearing in the first week of January 2026.

Case Title: S. M. Vetrivel v. Secretary, Bar Council of India