NEW DELHI, May 15 — Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued a stern rebuke on Friday, comparing certain unemployed youth who turn to activism and social media to “cockroaches” and “parasites” that attack the judicial system. The observations were made by a bench comprising CJI Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi during the hearing of a petition filed by a lawyer seeking designation as a senior advocate.
The bench criticized the petitioner’s professional conduct and his use of inappropriate language on social media platforms like Facebook. The Chief Justice maintained that the designation of a senior advocate is an honor conferred by the court based on merit and conduct, rather than a status symbol to be aggressively pursued through litigation.
“There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment or have any place in profession,” the CJI stated. He affirmed that such individuals often transition into roles as RTI activists or social media commentators specifically to launch attacks against institutional systems.
The court further noted that the petitioner’s behavior would disqualify him from such an elite professional standing. The bench asserted that even if the Delhi High Court were to grant him the title, the Supreme Court would likely set it aside based on his current record.
During the proceedings, the CJI expressed deep concern over the authenticity of legal credentials within the profession, suggesting that the Central Bureau of Investigation should verify the degrees of those practicing in courts. He maintained that the Bar Council of India has failed to address the issue of fake degrees due to internal political interests. Following the court’s sharp remarks, the petitioner tendered an apology and was permitted to withdraw his plea.
