ALA challenges exorbitant Bar Council election fee in High Court

Rajahmundry – Andhra Pradesh: In a strong protest against what they termed an “unjust and exclusionary move,” the Andhra Lawyers Association (ALA) has filed a petition in the Andhra Pradesh High Court challenging the steep hike of the Bar Council election nomination fee to Rs 1.25 lakh, calling it a conspiracy to keep common advocates out of the race.

ALA condemns fee hike as ‘corporate conspiracy’

ALA President MV Rajaram and General Secretary Meda Srinivas jointly alleged that the unprecedented increase in the nomination fee — now a non-refundable Rs 1,25,000 — was part of a larger plan to commercialize the Bar Council elections and make them accessible only to the wealthy. They said such a move undermines the democratic spirit of the legal fraternity and threatens the welfare and future of ordinary lawyers.

Petition filed seeking reduction to Rs 2,000

The ALA leadership has approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court, seeking to reduce the nomination fee to Rs 2,000. Rajaram, who will personally present the arguments in the case, said that the exorbitant fee discourages genuine candidates committed to the profession welfare and could instead encourage corrupt practices. The hearing is expected to take place in the coming days.

Call for unity among lawyers

Rajaram and Srinivas appealed to lawyers across the state to stand united against the commercialization of Bar Council elections. They urged advocates not to fall prey to “temptations and influence” during the polls and to back ALA’s struggle for transparency and equality. They emphasized that the Bar Council must remain a body representing the interests of all advocates, not a select few who can afford high entry costs.

ALA’s ongoing legal efforts and future plans

Highlighting ALA’s continued commitment to the welfare of advocates, Rajaram recalled that the association had earlier secured favorable orders from the High Court on implementing a special security law for lawyers, achieved through sustained legal efforts and public mobilization. The ALA is now planning to organize a statewide meeting under Rajaram’s leadership to discuss key issues — including legal assistance, welfare measures, and protection for advocates facing harassment or false cases.

Hope for reforms and justice

ALA leaders expressed confidence that the court would strike down the exorbitant fee and restore fairness in the election process. They reiterated that the association would continue to support any advocate facing injustice and fight for reforms ensuring the safety, dignity, and welfare of legal professionals.