ThePrint ThePrintPod: Why Bar Council of India, Society of Indian Law Firms are at loggerheads over rules for foreign lawyers
Jul 2, 2025
Tensions are brewing between the Bar Council of India and the Society of Indian Law Firms regarding new rules for foreign lawyers. The discussion highlights a significant Supreme Court ruling from 2018 that ordered the BCI to consult stakeholders. The potential implications for Indian legal professionals are also explored, as local practitioners fear disadvantages in a more globalized legal environment. Additionally, a new committee has been formed by SILF to gather input on the controversial regulations.
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BCI Accuses SILF Monopolizing Work
- The Bar Council of India accuses the Society of Indian Law Firms of monopolizing corporate and arbitration legal work.
- BCI alleges these firms leverage foreign client networks, sidelining smaller Indian firms from cross-border opportunities.
Conflict Over Foreign Lawyer Rules
- BCI's 2025 rules allow foreign lawyers to advise but limit them from litigating, requiring registration for accountability.
- SILF disputes these rules violate the Supreme Court's fly-in-fly-out permission and allow partnerships with Indian firms unfairly.
Past Resistance and Court Rulings
- In 2000, Delhi lawyers protested against foreign legal consultants, resulting in police clashes.
- Madras High Court later allowed foreign lawyers temporary advisory roles and arbitration participation under certain conditions.