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Remarks likely to trigger wider debate.

NEW DELHI: In sharp remarks that triggered intense discussion within legal and public circles, Surya Kant on Friday criticised what he described as a growing tendency among some unemployed youngsters and activists to “attack the system,” likening them to “cockroaches” during proceedings in the Supreme Court.

The observations were made by a Bench comprising CJI Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi while hearing a plea filed by a lawyer seeking designation as a senior advocate.

The Bench strongly disapproved of the petitioner’s conduct and accused him of actively “pursuing” the senior advocate designation, which the court said was against the spirit of the honour.

‘Senior designation is conferred, not pursued’

Expressing displeasure over the manner in which the lawyer had approached the matter, the Bench remarked that the designation of senior advocate is a distinction conferred by the court based on merit, professional standing and conduct — and not something that should be aggressively sought after.

“You are pursuing it. Does it look proper?” the Bench asked, questioning whether the senior designation had become merely a status symbol to be displayed ornamentally.

The court further told the petitioner that merely being eligible for designation did not automatically entitle someone to receive the honour.

“The entire world may be eligible to become senior advocate, but at least you are not entitled,” the Bench observed sternly.

CJI refers to social media conduct

A visibly upset Chief Justice also referred to the language allegedly used by the petitioner on Facebook and questioned whether such behaviour was compatible with the dignity expected of a senior advocate.

“If the Delhi High Court confers senior designation upon you, we will set it aside after seeing your professional conduct,” the CJI remarked.

The Bench suggested that individuals aspiring for senior designation must demonstrate restraint, professional ethics and respect towards institutions.

‘Parasites attacking the system’

During the hearing, CJI Surya Kant made broader comments about certain sections of society whom he accused of continuously attacking institutions and the system.

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

In remarks that later drew significant attention, he said:

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

The observations immediately sparked debate over the language used by the country’s highest judicial authority, especially with regard to activists and individuals involved in public accountability work.

Concerns over fake law degrees

The Bench also expressed concern over the quality and authenticity of legal education in the country.

The CJI observed that the Supreme Court sometimes felt the need to ask the Central Bureau of Investigation to verify the degrees of certain individuals practising law, suggesting that doubts existed about the genuineness of some qualifications.

“We want to ask the CBI to verify the degrees of many people wearing black robes,” the court remarked.

The Bench further criticised the Bar Council of India, alleging that it often failed to act firmly on such issues because of electoral considerations.

“The Bar Council of India will never do anything because they need their votes,” the court observed.

Petition withdrawn after apology

Following the court’s sharp remarks, the petitioner lawyer apologised to the Bench and requested permission to withdraw the plea seeking senior advocate designation.

The Supreme Court subsequently allowed the withdrawal of the petition and disposed of the matter.

Remarks likely to trigger wider debate

The comments made by the Chief Justice are likely to generate wider debate within legal, civil society and media circles regarding judicial language, institutional criticism and the role of activists and independent voices in a democracy.

While some members of the legal fraternity may interpret the remarks as frustration over growing attacks on institutions and misuse of social platforms, others are likely to question the sweeping characterisation of unemployed youth, RTI activists and media professionals.

The incident also once again brought attention to the opaque and often contentious process surrounding designation of senior advocates in higher courts across India.