Balotra, Rajasthan: In a significant boost to the legal fraternity across India, Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal unveiled a comprehensive advocate relief package, addressing long-standing concerns over welfare, professional fees, and payments.
The announcement was made during the 17th National Conference of the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad held in Balotra, Rajasthan, where lawyers from all over the country attended.
The relief package includes plans for a new insurance scheme with medical and accident coverage, an increase in fees for panel counsel appointed by the Central Government, and a clear commitment to resolving delays in payment of legal fees by government authorities and public sector undertakings.
Details of Advocate Relief Package
One of the most anticipated highlights of the Minister’s address was the announcement of a dedicated insurance scheme for advocates.
The scheme is expected to provide robust coverage, including:
- Medical Insurance — to support healthcare needs;
- Group Insurance — for enhanced security in times of crisis; and
- Accident Coverage — offering financial protection in case of unforeseen accidents.
“We are bringing an insurance scheme for you. Both medical insurance and group insurance. Accidents will also be covered,” Meghwal stated, applauded by a large gathering of legal professionals.
This initiative responds to long-standing demands from the legal community seeking social security and health protection benefits — a first-of-its-kind welfare measure for advocates in India’s judicial ecosystem.
Fee Revision for Central Government Panel Counsel
Another key announcement focused on professional fees. Advocates serving as panel counsel for the Central Government and its institutions, including public sector enterprises, have historically raised concerns about inadequate fee structures and delayed payments.
Addressing this, Minister Meghwal assured that:
- Fees will be increased to fair market-aligned rates, and
- Measures are underway to ensure timely payment of professional fees, ending the practice of long delays in payments by government bodies and PSUs.
“Your fees will be increased. Timely payment is not being made, and we are resolving that issue also, ” he said, noting that many lawyers have faced payment delays even after successful litigation.
This move is widely expected to strengthen confidence among legal professionals and enhance the attractiveness of panel counsel appointments across government bodies.
Advocates’ Protection Act Under Consideration
The Law Minister also touched upon the Advocates’ Protection Act, a proposed legislation aimed at safeguarding advocates against harassment and legal vulnerabilities while discharging their duties.
He clarified that the draft Act is currently under review by the Law Commission of India, with further consultations planned before formal introduction. While details are not yet finalized, the commitment to protective legislation underscores the government’s focus on institutional support for legal professionals.
Read also: Draft Advocates Protection Bill: Delhi HC Pushes Government to Reconsider Lawyers’ Safety Concerns
