SC takes suo moto cognizance of financial distress thrust upon lawyers amid COVID-19 outbreak

The apex court took suo moto cognizance of the financial difficulties faced by the advocates amid the coronavirus lockdown. The court also issued a notice on PIL filed by Bar Council of India (BCI) which sought Rs 3 lakhs as a loan amount for lawyers during the pandemic.

New Delhi:The Supreme Court bench led by the Chief Justice of India, SA Bobde, took a suo moto cognizance of the financial difficulty faced by the lawyers due to the consequent lockdown imposed in the wake of coronavirus.

"We are faced with an unprecedented crisis which needs an unprecedented solution. The pandemic has taken a heavy toll on the lives of citizens and especially lawyers," observed the bench.

Taking note that legal fraternity is restricted to earn a livelihood through legal profession only, the judges issued notice to all the bar associations across India asking them to appraise the court on why there is no fund set up for relief inviting donations from own members.

The court also issued a notice on PIL filed by Bar Council of India (BCI) which sought Rs 3 lakhs as a loan amount for lawyers during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the coronavirus outbreak has affected lawyer's across the nation