On 24th February, 2025, the Supreme Court bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and JusticeR. Mahadevan heard a petition challenging the fees and incidental charges imposed for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE). The petition was filed by an Advocate appearing in person, who argued that the Bar Council of India (BCI) charges Rs.3,500 for the AIBE which violates the Supreme Court's ruling in Gaurav Kumar v. Union of India (2024).

The petitioner argued that, according to the Gaurav Kumar judgment delivered by a three-judge bench comprising former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, the enrollment fee should be capped at ₹750 for general category advocates and ₹125 for SC/ST advocates, as prescribed under Section 24 of the Advocates Act, 1961.

The bench directed the petitioner to first approach the Bar Council of India (BCI) with a representation. If the BCI failed to respond within a reasonable time, he could seek relief from the Court. Justice Pardiwala remarked that the BCI needed funds to sustain itself, especially after its powers had been significantly curtailed. He also questioned the objection to the ₹3,500 fee, emphasizing that lawyers would eventually earn much more.

The Court also questioned the petitioner’s decision to invoke Article 32 jurisdiction instead of approaching a High Court. However, acknowledging the fundamental rights concerns raised, the Court allowed the petitioner to pursue the matter with the BCI and return if necessary.

Case Title: SANYAM GANDHI v. UNION OF INDIA AND ANR|W.P.(C) No. 28/2025

Source: News.