BCI seeks report on Mamata Banerjee’s advocate status after Calcutta High Court appearance

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has sought a detailed report from the Bar Council of West Bengal regarding the enrolment and legal practice status of Mamata Banerjee after her appearance before the Calcutta High Court in a lawyer’s gown on Thursday.

The development comes after Banerjee reportedly appeared in court to argue a matter linked to alleged post-poll violence and attacks on party offices, drawing attention to the legal and procedural requirements governing advocates who hold constitutional office.

BCI asks for records within 48 hours

In a formal communication issued by BCI Principal Secretary Sriramanto Sen, the Council directed the West Bengal Bar Council to furnish complete records related to Banerjee’s enrolment as an advocate, her practice status, and any suspension or revival of her licence during and after her tenure as chief minister from 2011 to 2026.

The BCI clarified that it was acting after taking note of “various media reports” showing Banerjee appearing in court in full legal attire, including the traditional white advocate bands.

The letter stated that the Council was not expressing any opinion at this stage regarding the legality or permissibility of her appearance before the court, but wanted the factual position verified from official records.

Questions over practice during the constitutional office

Under prevailing legal practice norms in India, advocates holding constitutional posts or full-time public offices are generally required to suspend active legal practice during their tenure. If they wish to resume practising law after leaving office, their licence and practice status typically need to be formally restored according to Bar Council rules.

The BCI’s inquiry is therefore focused on whether Banerjee’s advocate registration remained active, whether it had been suspended during her years in public office, and whether any process for resumption of practice was undertaken after demitting office.

Court appearance sparks debate

Banerjee’s appearance before the Calcutta High Court quickly became a major political and legal talking point in West Bengal, particularly because senior political leaders rarely appear personally in court proceedings wearing advocate attire after serving long terms in constitutional office.

The matter has also triggered broader discussion within legal circles about the professional obligations of advocates who transition into full-time political and executive roles.

The West Bengal Bar Council is now expected to submit its report to the Bar Council of India within the stipulated 48-hour deadline.