Unemployed youngsters in law like cockroaches; take to social media, RTI activism: CJI Surya Kant

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Friday expressed concern over unemployed young lawyers drifting away from practice toward social media and RTI activism, remarking that such "youngsters like cockroaches" were becoming parasites in society.

The Bench also comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi hearing a petition filed by a lawyer, advocate Sanjay Dube, seeking contempt of court action over Delhi High Court's delay in implementing the Senior Advocate designation guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court.

The CJI termed the petition as "rubbish" and asked the petitioner whether he was joining the "parasites" in the society who take to activism and social media.

"If you people do not have any respect, do you expect outsiders to give you respect? There are already parasites in society. And you want to join hands with them? There are youngsters like cockroaches who are not getting employment in the profession. Some are on social media, some become RTI activists. And you people file contempt petitions because the High Court is not taking up something. Rubbish!" the CJI said.

The Court also flagged the issue of burgeoning of lawyers with fake degrees.

It remarked that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) should examine the issue.

The Court refused to entertain the plea and also took objection to the language employed by petitioner, advocate Sanjay Dubey, on social media.

"Let people understand the kind of language you're using on Facebook. I will show you what is the meaning of discipline in the profession," the CJI said.

"Is a senior advocate tag a status symbol which is ornamental to be kept or for your participation in the justice system?" Justice Bagchi asked.

The petitioner eventually proceeded to withdraw the plea.