BCI urges Centre to come up with health insurance scheme for advocates, implement Advocates Protection Bill

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has urged the Central government to come up with a medical/health insurance scheme for advocates and their families, and to implement the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill..In a letter addressed to Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra highlighted issues that affect the welfare and security of the legal fraternity.The BCI has emphasised that advocates, despite their indispensable role in upholding the Constitution and ensuring protection of fundamental rights for citizens, have been vulnerable to health risks which has been starkly evident during the recent pandemic, when many advocates grappled with inadequate health coverage.The BCI said that it has been raising this issue since long and urged the government to take care of the financial aspect of such a scheme..The letter also called for the swift implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill, which aims to provide protection to lawyers from physical threats and intimidation that they are frequently faced with during work.“Before the last elections, Hon'ble Minister Meghwal ji has already assured me to get it done. I urge the swift implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/ Act. Advocates frequently face threats, intimidation, and even physical harm while performing their professional duties. These challenges are not merely occupational hazards; they are affronts to the very essence of justice. The proposed legislation aims to provide the necessary protection, ensuring that advocates can discharge their responsibilities fearlessly and with dignity,” the BCI said in its July 8 letter.It further stated that the implementation of this legislation along with a comprehensive insurance scheme would significantly enhance the morale and security of the legal fraternity.“The absence of adequate protections for Advocates is a paradox that undermines the very fabric of our justice system. While Advocates are referred to as officers of the court, they are often deprived of essential protections and benefits. Implementing a health, medical, and life insurance scheme and the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/Act would be a monumental step in acknowledging the sacrifices and dedication of the legal fraternity. These measures will not only uplift the morale of advocates but will also strengthen the justice delivery system in our country.”.It has thus urged the government to address these issues with urgency.“Under the visionary leadership of our Hon'ble Prime Minister and your esteemed guidance, I am confident that the Ministry of Law and Justice will take the necessary steps to support the Advocates of our nation. Your intervention in this matter would not only be a recognition of the crucial role played by Advocates but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to justice and democracy,” the letter says further..[Read Letter]