The Bar Council of India (BCI) has taken decisive action following the discovery of significant irregularities in the academic records of Mr. Sanjeev Nasiar, Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi.

These discrepancies involve an LL.B. (Hons.) degree, allegedly issued by Devi Ahilyabai Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, which is now under intense scrutiny.

The action follows an investigation by a subcommittee formed on September 3, 2024, in accordance with directions from the Delhi High Court in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 3244/2024. The inquiry uncovered several concerning findings, including that P.M.B. Gujarati Arts and Law College, Indore, where Mr. Nasiar purportedly completed his LL.B. (Hons.), was not authorized to offer the course during the relevant period.

Additionally, the academic records were found to have been tampered with, exhibiting uniform handwriting and ink consistency over extended periods, casting doubt on their authenticity.

The inquiry further revealed that the LL.B. (Hons.) program was introduced under Bar Council of India regulations only in 2008, while the disputed degree was allegedly issued in 1988, creating a clear discrepancy with regulatory norms. Efforts to probe the matter were hindered by non-cooperation from university officials, which only heightened concerns.

Based on the findings of the sub-committee's report, dated October 25, 2024, the General Council of the BCI has resolved to adopt the recommendations and instructed the BCI Secretary to request an immediate investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the authenticity of the degree and potential record fabrication. In light of these developments, Mr. Sanjeev Nasiar has been removed from his position as Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi, pending the outcome of the investigation.

The BCI, in a statement, emphasized that this action is crucial to preserve the integrity and dignity of the legal profession and to maintain public confidence in its processes. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to the highest standards of ethics and qualifications, making it clear that it will not tolerate any threat to the sanctity of the legal field.