New Delhi: Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has refused to resign from his post amid protests by members of various Delhi Bar Associations.
Mishra said he was elected to the position and represents around 25 lakh lawyers across the country. Responding to demands for his resignation, he said he would not step down simply because of protests.
“I have served as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India for 12 to 14 years because I was elected,” Mishra said.
Lawyers Raise Concerns Over BCI Functioning
The protests were held outside the BCI office in New Delhi, where lawyers raised several concerns related to the legal profession.
Demonstrators questioned Mishra's long tenure as BCI chairman and demanded action on issues including advocate welfare schemes, implementation of an Advocate Protection Act and a proposed increase in registration fees for lawyers at State Bar Councils.
Mishra Responds to NALSAR University Row
Addressing recent criticism, Mishra also spoke about the controversy involving students of NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, and the Chief Justice of India, who is also the university's Chancellor.
Mishra criticized what he called “irresponsible commentary” on social media and said the students' decision to boycott the convocation ceremony was objectionable.
He said the BCI had initially issued an order regarding the students' enrollment but withdrew it within 15 minutes after addressing the concerns.
BCI Chief Targets Critics Over Protest
Mishra alleged that the issue was later used by some political groups and the “CJP group” to demand his resignation. He maintained that the BCI leadership position is based on election and said he would continue serving in the role.