The Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman, Manan Kumar Mishra, has raised concerns regarding West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s courtroom attire, specifically her appearance in a lawyer’s robe during recent legal proceedings. Mishra emphasised that the council is currently verifying whether Banerjee possesses a valid license to practice law. He pointed out inconsistencies in her attire across various court appearances.

During an interaction with ANI, Mishra noted, “When she (Mamata Banerjee) came to the Supreme Court regarding the RG Kar matter, she wasn’t in a lawyer’s attire. But today, her appearance in court regarding the post-poll violence matter was different.” He further stated, “I do not know whether she holds a valid license to practice.” This remark has raised further questions regarding the legitimacy of her representation.

Request for Information from the West Bengal Bar Council

Following Banerjee’s appearance in legal garb at the Calcutta High Court, the BCI has directed the West Bengal Bar Council to provide pertinent information regarding her enrolment and current status as an advocate. This request was communicated in a letter sent on May 14. The BCI highlighted concerns surrounding the presence of “fake lawyers” within the legal system, leading to their swift action in seeking clarity on this matter.

The BCI’s letter requested specifics such as Mamata Banerjee’s enrolment number, the date she registered with the State Bar Council, and the current status of her name on the Roll of Advocates. Mishra elaborated that the council has made it clear that they are not making any judgments about the permissibility of her attire at this time.

Additionally, the BCI demanded information on whether Banerjee had previously informed the State Bar Council about voluntarily suspending her legal practice or if she had ceased practising law altogether during her time as Chief Minister from 2011 to 2026.

Context of Banerjee’s Court Appearance

On May 15, Mamata Banerjee appeared before Chief Justice HC Sujoy Pal at the Calcutta High Court in connection with a public interest litigation (PIL) that addresses allegations of post-election violence in West Bengal following the 2026 State Assembly election results. The petition, filed by advocate Sirsanya Banerjee, who is also a candidate for the Trinamool Congress, included accusations of violence across various regions, including attacks on party offices and the displacement of party workers.

During the hearing, Mamata Banerjee articulated the stance of her party with senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee also present in court. This legal engagement has highlighted the political tensions and accusations of violence surrounding the recent elections in West Bengal.

As the BCI continues its investigation into Mamata Banerjee’s legal status, the outcome may have implications for her representation in future legal matters, alongside ongoing discussions surrounding the ethical practices of those operating within the legal framework in the region.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share