New Delhi, December 31: The Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman, Manan Kumar Mishra, met with Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Wednesday to address several critical issues affecting the legal community. The discussions centered on welfare programs, statutory protections, and potential reforms designed to enhance the conditions for advocates nationwide.

Mishra described the meeting as constructive, highlighting the positive direction of the talks. Key topics included the introduction of insurance and mediclaim facilities for advocates and their families, the progress of the proposed Advocates Protection Act, and proposed amendments to the Advocates Act. Mishra noted that the Centre had already acted on the Bar's previous concerns by removing controversial provisions, showing a willingness to collaborate with stakeholders.

As a Rajya Sabha MP, Mishra also emphasized the importance of revising the enrolment fee structure, strengthening Bar Councils and Associations, and expanding the Legal Education Committee to adapt to the evolving needs of the profession. He reiterated the Modi government’s commitment to launching structured welfare schemes for advocates and their families.

To facilitate the implementation of insurance and mediclaim benefits, advocates have been asked to submit their personal and dependent information to the BCI through their Bar Associations or State Bar Councils within 15 days, using the circulated Google Forms.

On the legislative front, Mishra confirmed that the Advocates Protection Act is in its final stages with the Law Commission of India and is expected to be presented in Parliament during the upcoming session. This proposed legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and dignity of legal professionals.