BCI allows lawmakers to practice advocates; gives permission with rider

The Bar Council of India has decided to allow MPs, MLAs to practise as advocates barring those who move an impeachment motion against any judge of the higher judiciary. The resolution assumes significance in light of the recent move by Rajya Sabha MPs to initiate impeachment proceedings against Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra. BCI chairman Manan Kumar Mishra said that the decision was taken by the apex bar body to prevent the “misuse of powers” and “privileges” of a lawyer and not of a member of parliament.