BCI Calls for Health Insurance Scheme and Protection Bill for Advocates

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has urged the Central Government to introduce a health insurance scheme for advocates. This move aims to provide better health security and welfare for legal professionals across the country. Additionally, the BCI is pushing for the implementation of the Advocates Protection Bill. This bill is designed to ensure the safety and protection of advocates, addressing various risks and challenges they face in the course of their professional duties. The BCI emphasizes the need for these measures to enhance the overall working conditions and safeguard the interests of advocates.

In a communication to Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra underscored several critical issues impacting the welfare and safety of the legal community.

Mishra pointed out that despite the crucial role advocates play in upholding the Constitution and safeguarding citizens’ fundamental rights, they remain highly vulnerable to health risks. This vulnerability was starkly highlighted during the recent pandemic, where numerous advocates struggled with inadequate health coverage.

The BCI has long been vocal about this issue, urging the government to address the financial aspects of a comprehensive health insurance scheme for advocates.

Additionally, the letter urged the rapid enactment of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill. This proposed legislation aims to shield lawyers from physical threats and intimidation they frequently encounter in their professional roles.

“Prior to the last elections, Hon’ble Minister Meghwal had assured me of taking action on this matter. I now urge the swift implementation of the Advocates Protection and Compensation Bill/Act. Advocates regularly 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,” stated the BCI in its letter dated July 8.

The letter further emphasized that implementing this legislation, along with a comprehensive insurance scheme, would significantly boost the morale and security of the legal fraternity.

“The lack of adequate protections for advocates is a contradiction that undermines the very foundation of our justice system. Although advocates are regarded as officers of the court, they often lack essential protections and benefits. Implementing a health, medical, and life insurance scheme, along with 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 reinforce the justice delivery system in our country,” the BCI asserted.