Draft bill sets stage for entry of foreign law firms into India

Proposed changes give Centre overriding powers over Bar Council of India; restrict strikes

- Manas Pimpalkhare

The Centre is proposing changes in the rules that would pave the way for foreign law firms to enter India. Draft amendments to the Advocates Act published by the Union ministry of law and justice on Thursday propose to give powers to the central government to make rules governing the entry of foreign law firms and foreign lawyers and allow the Bar Council of India (BCI) to regulate law firms.

Previously, the BCI would make rules and regulations for the entry of foreign law firms and lawyers. Also, there was no provision to regulate law firms. Consultations on the amendments are open till the end of February.

The Advocates Act has long governed the registration and regulation of legal practitioners in the country. It also creates the BCI and other state bar councils.