New Delhi: The fake advocates in India issue has sparked major concern after Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra claimed that nearly 35-40% of people practicing in courts may have fake law degrees.
The statement has raised serious questions about legal education, advocate verification, and the credibility of the justice system in India.
Fake Advocates in India: What Did the BCI Chairperson Say?
According to reports, BCI Chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra said that many individuals wearing black coats and practicing in courts are allegedly using fake or fabricated law degrees.
Read also: Fake Law Degree Crisis in India: Supreme Court Urges CBI Probe Into Thousands of Lawyers
Key points from his statement:
- Around 35-40% advocates may be fake.
- Many allegedly bought or manufactured fake degrees.
- Several advocates reportedly failed to complete degree verification.
- The Bar Council of India is already aware of the issue.
- Verification and disciplinary actions are being planned.
Degree Verification Process Raised Red Flags
Mishra stated that when the BCI started advocate degree verification, nearly 40% of advocates did not submit verification forms.
This created suspicion regarding:
- Fake law certificates
- Invalid university records
- Unauthorized legal practice
- Fraudulent enrollment in bar councils
The BCI says it is continuing checks and investigations.
Supreme Court’s Concern Over Fake Advocates in India
The controversy gained more attention after Supreme Court observations during a recent hearing.
Chief Justice Surya Kant reportedly questioned the authenticity of several law degrees and even suggested the possibility of involving the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for verification.
The comments came during proceedings related to senior advocate designation matters.
BCI Has Previously Removed Fake Advocates
This is not the first time action has been taken against fake lawyers.
In 2024, the Bar Council of India removed 107 fake advocates from Delhi rolls under verification rules. Authorities said the move was aimed at protecting the integrity of the legal profession.
Past reports also showed similar concerns:
- In 2015, BCI officials had claimed nearly 30% lawyers were fake.
- Multiple fake enrollment and malpractice cases have surfaced over the years.
Why Fake Advocates in India Is a Serious Matter
The presence of fake advocates can seriously affect:
- Public trust in courts
- Fair legal representation
- Judicial efficiency
- Professional ethics
- Legal education standards
Experts say strict verification systems and digital records are necessary to stop unauthorized legal practice.
