New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday made sharp observations during a Supreme Court hearing while dealing with a petition filed by a lawyer seeking designation as a senior advocate.

The matter was heard by a bench comprising CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. The bench questioned the petitioner’s conduct and underlined that senior advocate designation is conferred by the court and is not a position to be actively pursued.

“The entire world may be eligible to become senior (advocate), but at least you are not entitled,” the bench told the petitioner lawyer.

Court Questions Professional Conduct

The bench also cautioned that even if the Delhi High Court were to grant the petitioner senior advocate designation, the Supreme Court could examine his professional conduct and set aside such a decision if necessary.

Referring to the lawyer’s conduct and social media activity, the bench remarked that there were already enough “parasites” in society who target institutions.

“There are already parasites of society who attack the system and you want to join hands with them?” the CJI said.

‘Youngsters Like Cockroaches’ Remark Sparks Discussion

The Chief Justice then made a remark that drew significant attention during the proceedings.

“There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment or have any place in profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, RTI activists and other activists and they start attacking everyone,” he said.

The bench further questioned whether the petitioner had no other pending matters and asked if his conduct reflected the standards expected of someone aspiring to be designated as a senior advocate.

“Is this the conduct of a person who seeks to be designated as a senior advocate?” the bench asked.

It also observed that senior advocate designation was not a status symbol to be pursued “ornamentally” and noted that the petitioner appeared to be lobbying for the honour.

Concerns Over Authenticity of Law Degrees

During the hearing, the bench also raised concerns about legal education and remarked that verification of law degrees of several lawyers may be necessary due to doubts over their authenticity.

The court further observed that the Bar Council of India may be reluctant to act on such issues because they “need their votes”.

Petitioner Withdraws Plea After Apology

Following the court’s observations, the petitioner apologised before the bench and sought permission to withdraw the plea. The Supreme Court accepted the request and allowed the petition to be withdrawn.