SCBA seeks Relaxation of waiting period for Senior Advocate Designation, writes to CJI

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has formally requested Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to reconsider the mandatory waiting periods prescribed under the 2026 Guidelines for designation of Senior Advocates. The representation seeks relaxation of the two year and one year reapplication bars, arguing that the current framework may unfairly disadvantage deserving members of the Bar.

In a letter dated February 12, the SCBA raised concerns over Paras 21 and 22 of the newly notified 2026 Guidelines. Under the existing rules, advocates whose applications are rejected by the Full Court must wait two years before seeking reconsideration, while those whose cases are deferred cannot reapply for one year.

The Association stated that multiple members, particularly those evaluated in the previous designation cycle, have flagged the rigidity of these timelines, especially in instances where deferment or non-selection was not linked to any disqualification. Referring to a 2024 relaxation granted by the Committee for Designation of Senior Advocates, the SCBA noted that earlier, deferred candidates were permitted to reapply without adhering to the one year bar, and unsuccessful applicants were allowed to reapply after one year instead of two.

The SCBA has urged the CJI to adopt a similar approach under the 2026 regime. Specifically, it has requested that advocates whose applications were not favourably considered be permitted to reapply after one year instead of two, and that those whose cases were deferred be allowed to submit fresh applications without being restricted by the one-year waiting clause.

Emphasising fairness in the process, the Association stated that the relaxation would ensure that “deserving and meritorious members of the Bar are not unduly prejudiced by procedural timelines.” The matter now awaits consideration by the Chief Justice.

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