Karnataka Bar Council cracks down on fake lawyers, misuse of legal credentials

In a concerning revelation, the Karnataka Bar Council has announced that a significant number of individuals have allegedly registered as advocates using forged documents. While over 1.29 lakh individuals are officially enrolled as lawyers in the state, Council President Mittalkod disclosed that only around 68,000 are actively practicing law.

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During a press conference, Mittalkod stated that the Council has received credible complaints about fake lawyers, especially in Bengaluru, and action has already been initiated based on available information. Legal proceedings have been launched against several such individuals, including Syed Sadad, Sadananda Gowda, Suvarna Latha Gadigeppagowdar, Yogananda, and Benki Chidanand. Notably, Benki Chidanand has already received a 3-year prison sentence in a related case.

The Bar Council has warned lawyers who are engaged in alternate professions—particularly in real estate and commercial ventures—to either declare their status or face disciplinary action. Of the 1.29 lakh registered advocates, only 1,634 have formally suspended their licenses. The remaining inactive lawyers have been asked to surrender their licenses by August 30, or face legal consequences.

In addition, the Council issued a stern warning against the misuse of advocate symbols on commercial vehicles. Only stickers issued officially by the Bar Council may be displayed on vehicles to preserve the dignity of the profession. Unauthorized use of legal insignia will invite penal action.