The Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued a circular to vice-chancellors and higher education departments nationwide, seeking their assistance in maintaining the quality and integrity of legal education. The circular, dated April 15, highlights the BCI’s concern over the issuance of over 300 No Objection Certificates (NOCs) by state governments and the granting of affiliations by universities for new law institutes, despite previous resolutions urging restrictions.

The BCI emphasizes the need for stricter regulatory measures to curb the unchecked growth of law colleges, suggesting guidelines for NOC grants, including financial viability and regulatory compliance. While acknowledging its regulatory role, the BCI underscores the importance of active involvement and cooperation from universities and government bodies to uphold educational standards.

The representation emphasizes the pivotal roles of state governments and universities in addressing the proliferation of substandard law colleges. It outlines the three stages of establishing a law college: obtaining an NOC from the state government, university affiliation, and BCI approval. By adhering meticulously to these stages, the representation suggests that the proliferation of substandard law colleges can be mitigated.

The BCI appeals to universities and state education ministries to collaborate in upholding the sanctity and quality of legal education in India.