BCI Prohibits Use of "National" and "Indian" by Private Law Universities for Moot Court Competitions
The BCI's ban on private law universities using terms like National or Bharat for moot court events curbs misleading practices and ensures transparency.
On October 15, 2024, the Bar Council of India (BCI) issued a circular prohibiting private law universities from using terms such as "India," "Indian," "National," "Bharat," "Bhartiya," and "Rashtriya" in connection with moot court competitions, conferences, and other law-related events. This move aims to prevent misleading representations and uphold the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950.
The BCI stated that the use of these terms without proper approval gives the appearance that such events have national significance or government backing, which is often not the case. The circular specifically addressed the growing trend of institutions labelling their events as "National Moot Courts" or "All India Moot Court Competitions" without having the statutory authority or government recognition to do so.
Misleading Practices and Public Deception
The BCI highlighted that using these terms without approval violates the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, which prohibits unauthorized usage of names that imply national importance. Private institutions labelling their events as "National" or "All-India" are misrepresenting the scope and status of these events.
Authorized Use of Terms
While private institutions are prohibited from using these terms, the BCI clarified that National Law Universities (NLUs) and government-affiliated institutions can continue to organize events with "National" or similar titles, provided they meet the necessary conditions. These institutions must notify the Central Government in advance to ensure compliance and transparency.
Events organized by the BCI, NLUs, Central or State Universities' Departments of Law, and other authorized bodies may be referred to as "National-Level Competitions".
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The BCI warned that institutions violating this directive may face serious repercussions, including revocation of BCI recognition or approval, legal action under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, disqualification from organizing future events, and the loss of privileges granted by the BCI.
This directive seeks to maintain the integrity and legal standing of national-level events and prevent the unauthorized use of terms that might mislead the legal community and the public.
Click Here to Read the Official Circular