The Lower House of Parliament, Lok Sabha, recently approved The Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2023, signaling a substantial step towards the regulation of the legal profession under a unified Act. The primary objective of the bill is to eliminate the influence of "touts" within the country's courts. During the parliamentary discussion, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal emphasized the necessity of excluding touts from the judicial process.

The proposed amendments target the Advocates Act of 1961, seeking to streamline and consolidate regulations while repealing the outdated Legal Practitioners Act of 1879. Despite this overhaul, the bill retains a provision specifically addressing the issue of touts operating within the legal system.

The bill is part of the central government's effort to revoke "all outdated laws or acts predating independence" that no longer serve a practical purpose.

Noteworthy concerns were raised during the parliamentary debate, particularly by NCP Lok Sabha member Supriya Sule. Sule drew attention to safety issues faced by professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and press personnel, prompting inquiries into the government's plans for ensuring their protection.

Having successfully passed the Rajya Sabha on August 3, the bill now awaits the President's assent after its recent approval by the Lok Sabha. This legislative development marks the first bill to be passed by the Lower House in the Winter session, that commenced on Monday. The session began with Speaker Om Birla paying homage to departed members, followed by a two-minute silence, underscoring the gravity of the parliamentary proceedings.

The House has been adjourned until Tuesday, December 5, at 11 AM, following the passage of the Advocates (Amendment) Bill 2023.