Supreme Court Raises Concerns Over Dual Professional Roles
On Monday, the Supreme Court questioned the practice of a lawyer, Mohd Kamran, who also works as a freelance journalist, highlighting potential violations of Bar Council rules. The Bench, consisting of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih, was hearing an appeal against an Allahabad High Court decision that had dismissed criminal defamation proceedings against former parliamentarian Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.
During the hearing, Justice Oka scrutinized the dual role of the appellant, emphasizing that the Bar Council of India’s regulations prohibit advocates from engaging in other employment. “I do not get your professional misconduct. You say you are a lawyer as well as a journalist. See the Bar Council of India rules about this. There is complete prohibition,” Justice Oka remarked.
The Court has decided to seek responses from both the Uttar Pradesh Bar Council and the Bar Council of India regarding any potential actions against Kamran. Justice Oka advised Kamran to choose between being a lawyer or a journalist, stating, “Please do not try such adventures. Say you are either a lawyer or a journalist.”
The appeal in question was filed against the Allahabad High Court’s March 12 ruling that quashed defamation proceedings initiated by Kamran against Singh. Kamran alleged that Singh, through letters circulated on social media and in newspapers, had falsely accused him of being a conspirator and thief.
In addition to the defamation case, Singh faces trial on charges of sexual harassment brought by six Indian wrestlers. The Delhi Police has filed a chargesheet against Singh under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including outraging modesty and criminal intimidation. Singh has denied all allegations and maintains his innocence in the ongoing trial.
The Supreme Court has previously been involved in ensuring an FIR was registered against Singh, with the investigation reported to be progressing. A minor wrestler’s earlier complaint against Singh was withdrawn, leading to a cancellation report under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).
(With inputs from agency)
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