‘Padho Bhai!’: All India Bar Examination Cut-Off Marks Reduction Plea
Introduction
The Supreme Court of India recently dismissed a plea seeking to reduce the cut-off marks for the All-India Bar Examination (AIBE) in the case of Bar Council of India v. Bonnie FOI Law College. The petitioners argued that the increased cut-off percentage was unfair and created undue pressure on candidates.
Case Facts
The petitioners challenged the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) decision to raise the All-India Bar Examination (AIBE) cut-off marks. The cut-off was increased from 40% to 45% for general and OBC candidates, and from 35% to 40% for SC/ST candidates. The petitioners argued that this change was made without proper consultation and adversely affected the passing rates of candidates.
Issues
The main issue was whether the BCI’s decision to increase the cut-off marks was arbitrary and whether it violated the rights of the candidates.
Judgment
The Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, dismissed the plea, upholding the BCI’s decision. The court found that the BCI has the authority to set and modify the standards for the legal profession, including examination criteria.
CJI’s Comments
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in the legal profession. He stated that the increased cut-off marks were necessary to ensure that only well-qualified candidates are allowed to practice law. He further mentioned that the BCI’s decision was within its regulatory framework and aimed at improving the quality of legal services in the country.
The CJI also addressed the “Padho Bhai” slogan cited in the plea, suggesting that candidates need to prepare diligently and meet higher standards instead of seeking relaxation. This comment highlighted the court’s stance that raising the cut-off marks is in line with ensuring competence among legal practitioners​
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