Delhi HC calls for response from Delhi University, BCI on rule barring LL.M. students from professional practice

The Delhi High Court has issued notice on a petition challenging the validity of a condition imposed by the Delhi University’s Faculty of Law that requires LL.M. students to file affidavits restricting their professional engagement during the course.

The plea, filed by a group of students, assails the condition introduced through a notification dated June 26, 2015, and the rules framed under it. The petitioners contend that the impugned requirement is unconstitutional, arbitrary, and violative of their fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19(1)(g), and 21 of the Constitution. They have also sought a declaration that the affidavits obtained from them at the time of admission are unenforceable and void ab initio.

Alternatively, the students have urged the Court to quash the affidavits prospectively from the date of filing of the petition.

Justice Vikas Mahajan issued notice to the respondents. Advocate Santosh Kumar accepted notice for Delhi University authorities, while Advocate Preet Pal Singh accepted notice for the Bar Council of India (BCI).

The Court has directed the respondents to file their short affidavits within two weeks, with rejoinder, if any, to be filed within two weeks thereafter. The matter will be taken up for further hearing on September 25, 2025.