Today, in a significant move touching upon professional ethics and practice eligibility under the Advocates Act, the Bar Council of India has stepped in to seek detailed records regarding the enrolment and practice status of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee after reports emerged of her appearance before the Calcutta High Court in an advocate’s attire, including white bands. The communication sent to the Bar Council of West Bengal indicates that the Bar Council of India is seeking clarity on whether all rules relating to an advocate’s right to practice were duly followed during and after Mamata Banerjee’s tenure in constitutional office, while also examining the status of her continued enrolment and professional standing on the State Roll.
The controversy began after media reports showed Mamata Banerjee appearing at the Calcutta High Court wearing legal robes. Acting on this, the Bar Council of India issued a formal direction asking the State Bar Council to furnish records concerning her enrolment number, date of enrolment, present status on the Roll of Advocates, and whether any intimation regarding suspension, cessation, or resumption of practice had ever been submitted during her tenure as Chief Minister from 2011 to 2026. The BCI also sought details regarding any Certificate of Practice issued in her favour and directed preservation of all original records pending inquiry. The communication specifically referred to Part VI, Chapter IV of the Bar Council of India Rules governing dress and robes worn by advocates before courts and tribunals.
The Bar Council of India’s letter indicates a broader concern over whether professional rules governing advocates were properly followed during and after Mamata Banerjee’s tenure in public office. Emphasising that the verification must be based strictly on official records maintained over the years, the BCI asked the West Bengal Bar Council to furnish certified copies of enrolment records, any documents relating to suspension or cessation of practice, applications for resumption of practice, correspondence files, and other connected records. While the communication stops short of making any finding of wrongdoing, it makes clear that the exercise is aimed at fact verification and preservation of records. The BCI also specifically directed that no alterations or modifications be made to the concerned documents and sought a response within two days, treating the matter as urgent.
Consequently, the Bar Council of West Bengal has now been tasked with furnishing a complete record trail relating to Mamata Banerjee’s enrolment and practice history.
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