The Supreme Court, on February 9, emphasized the need for compulsory training for all advocates, akin to the training judges receive at the National Judicial Academy. This statement came during a hearing regarding a bail plea related to the West Bengal teachers’ recruitment “scam.”
Bench’s Observation
The Bench, comprising Justices Bela M. Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal, remarked that lawyers should undergo mandatory training and obtain certification from recognized law universities before practicing law. They highlighted the lack of accountability for lawyers’ actions and advocated for proper education and training for all lawyers, including senior advocates.
Implications and Action Taken
The court directed the Additional Solicitor General to verify the existence of a summoning order related to the case and scheduled another hearing for the following week. This directive came in light of the bail plea filed by Souvik Bhattacharya, the son of a Trinamool Congress MLA, in connection with the alleged recruitment scam.
Case Background
The case involves allegations of irregularities in the recruitment of teachers in West Bengal. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are investigating the matter, focusing on tracking the money trail and examining alleged recruitment irregularities, respectively.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What did the Supreme Court emphasize regarding lawyers during the hearing on February 9?
- A) Lawyers should not be allowed to practice without compulsory training.
- B) Lawyers should receive training from recognized law universities.
- C) All lawyers should undergo mandatory training.
- D) All of the above.
- Answer: D) All of the above.
- According to the Bench, what is lacking in the current system regarding lawyers’ accountability?
- A) Proper education
- B) Mandatory certification
- C) Accountability for lawyers’ actions
- D) All of the above
- Answer: C) Accountability for lawyers’ actions
- What action did the Supreme Court direct the Additional Solicitor General to take?
- A) Verify the existence of a summoning order
- B) Schedule another hearing after a week
- C) Investigate the alleged recruitment scam
- D) None of the above
- Answer: A) Verify the existence of a summoning order
- What are the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigating?
- A) Allegations of corruption in government contracts
- B) Irregularities in teachers’ recruitment
- C) Money laundering in political campaigns
- D) None of the above
- Answer: B) Irregularities in teachers’ recruitment