About the Supreme Court Bar Association
Upholding Constitutional Values • Since 1950
From its very inception, the Supreme Court Bar Association has been in the vanguard of the movement for upholding, maintaining and consolidating the constitutional values of democracy, the rule of law and the independence of the Judiciary.
In its meeting dated 4th May, 1951, the Executive Committee of the Bar Association, consisting of distinguished legal luminaries such as M. C. Setalvad, C. K. Daphtary and K. M. Munshi, expressed deep concern regarding the First Amendment to the Constitution. The Committee resolved that no attempt should be made to abridge or limit the Fundamental Rights. It further observed that the Constitution had been in force for only sixteen months and that the Supreme Court had not yet had sufficient opportunity to pronounce upon the validity of various State laws.
The Executive Committee also opposed the proposal to combine the offices of the Law Minister and the Attorney General, considering it a threat to the independence of the Judiciary.
During its formative years, the Bar Association consistently demonstrated its commitment to justice by establishing a Legal Aid Scheme for poor litigants, supporting members of the Bar in need of financial assistance, promoting legal research, and maintaining close fraternal relations with Bar Associations across the country.
A major landmark in the history of the Supreme Court Bar Association came during the turbulent period between 1970 and 1980. The historic judgment in the Keshavananda Bharati case laid down the doctrine of the basic structure of the Constitution, placing implied limitations on Parliament's power to amend the Constitution.
Soon thereafter, three eminent Judges of the Supreme Court—Justices Hegde, Shelat and Grover—were superseded, and Justice A. N. Ray was appointed Chief Justice of India on 25 April 1973. This development generated widespread concern within the legal fraternity and was viewed as an attempt to undermine judicial independence.
The Supreme Court Bar Association, together with Bar Associations throughout the country, united in defence of the independence of the Judiciary and the constitutional framework of India.
Historical Reflection
"25 April 1973 has been described by Shri C. K. Daphtary as one of the darkest days in the history of Indian democracy."
Throughout its history, the Supreme Court Bar Association has remained committed to protecting constitutional values, safeguarding the independence of the Judiciary, promoting the highest standards of the legal profession, and serving both its members and society with dedication and integrity.