Mumbai, Nov 6,2025 (THCT) : The All India Lawyers’ Union (AILU) strongly condemns the suspension of the license of noted human rights lawyer Advocate Asim Sarode by the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa (BCMG). The three-month suspension has reportedly been imposed solely on the basis of remarks made by Advocate Sarode during a public event held in March 2024, where he commented on the functioning of the justice system and the accountability of constitutional authorities.
At the said event, Advocate Sarode spoke about systemic delays in the justice delivery mechanism, the difficulty faced by ordinary citizens in accessing courts, and the need for greater accountability of constitutional functionaries. Media reports indicate that he also questioned the manner in which certain constitutional offices — including that of the Governor — discharge their duties, stating that “all constitutional authorities must remain accountable to the people in a democracy.” His remarks were made in a constructive and democratic spirit, expressing the expectation that institutions within the constitutional framework should function transparently and responsibly. Advocate Sarode has publicly clarified that his intention was to highlight systemic shortcomings and to advocate reform — not to malign any individual or show disrespect to the judiciary.
Following this event, certain individuals filed a complaint before the BCMG. Acting on that complaint, the Bar Council passed an order on 12 August 2025 suspending Advocate Sarode’s license for three months. However, the order was communicated to him only on 3 November 2025, nearly three months later. The delay in communication and the lack of transparency in sharing the order’s reasoning raise serious concerns regarding procedural fairness and adherence to the principles of natural justice. Members of the legal fraternity have voiced apprehension that the disciplinary process appears influenced by external pressure or political considerations, as punitive action for expressing a democratic opinion is neither justified nor compatible with the freedom of expression guaranteed under the Constitution.
Lawyers are not mere professionals who represent clients in court; they are defenders of civil liberties and guardians of democratic accountability. A lawyer’s right and duty to critique the justice system, governmental actions, or constitutional authorities is essential to the preservation of a healthy democracy. Raising questions and calling for reform is not misconduct; silencing such voices is. Independent thought is not a crime. Using disciplinary proceedings to silence lawyers is an injustice to the legal system itself.
AILU demands that the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa immediately withdraw the suspension and that the Bar Council of India (BCI) intervene to ensure that the disciplinary mechanism operates independently, transparently, and without political interference. Targeting a lawyer for expressing a constitutional opinion sets a dangerous precedent and will not be tolerated.
AILU stands in full solidarity with Advocate Asim Sarode. Attempts to suppress the independent voice of the Bar strike at the very foundation of democratic freedoms.