The Supreme Court on Wednesday said it will examine whether the Bar Council of India (BCI) has the statutory authority to control and regulate law colleges and universities.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana was hearing petitions concerning the functioning of the BCI-PEARL FIRST Trust and the establishment of law institutions by the trust.
During the hearing, the court questioned whether the BCI, whose statutory role is primarily linked to regulation of the legal profession, should also exercise control over academic institutions.
The bench also questioned whether the BCI should be considered an expert body for regulating legal education, noting that law scholars and academics could have a role in academic matters. The court observed that the BCI could prescribe broad standards, including the duration of law courses, but questioned whether this extends to controlling law colleges and universities.
The petitions also raise issues concerning the BCI-PEARL FIRST Trust and law colleges established in Goa and Andhra Pradesh. Petitioners have questioned the extent of BCI involvement in the administration of these institutions.
The Supreme Court has issued notice and sought a response from the BCI. The proceedings will determine the scope of the Council’s statutory powers over legal education.
The case is Girish Mittal vs Bar Council of India, W.P.(C) No. 1115/2026.
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