The latest CJI activist remarks from the Supreme Court have triggered widespread discussion after Chief Justice Surya Kant made strong observations about unemployed youth, RTI activists and social media activism during a senior advocate designation hearing.
POONCH MIRROR NEWS DESK MAY 16,2016
New Delhi, May 15, 2026 – The Supreme Court on Friday came down heavily on a section of unemployed young people, with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant remarking that some of them, “like cockroaches”, morph into media persons, social media voices and RTI activists and begin attacking the system. The sharp observations were made during a heated exchange over a petition seeking the designation of senior advocate.
A bench comprising CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi pulled up the petitioner-lawyer for aggressively pursuing the coveted designation, making it clear that such recognition is conferred by the court and cannot be demanded as a matter of right. As the proceedings unfolded, the bench broadened its criticism to include what it termed “parasites” in society who have made it their mission to target the system.
“There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment or have any place in profession. Some of them become media, some become social media, RTI activists and other activists and they start attacking everyone,” the CJI observed, according to news agency PTI. The bench then pointedly asked the petitioner whether he wanted to join hands with these elements, stating that society already had “parasites” who attack the establishment.
The court’s ire was directed squarely at the lawyer’s conduct in persistently chasing the senior advocate gown. “Is this the conduct of a person who seeks to be designated as a senior advocate? You are pursuing it. Does it look proper?” the bench asked, adding that a senior advocate designation was not an ornamental status symbol. In an unambiguous rebuke, the CJI declared, “The entire world may be eligible to become senior advocate, but at least you are not entitled.” He further warned that even if the Delhi High Court were to confer the designation upon the petitioner, the Supreme Court would set it aside in view of his professional conduct.
The court also took note of the language used by the petitioner on Facebook, indicating that his social media behaviour was incompatible with the dignity expected of a senior member of the bar.
During the hearing, the bench raised a broader alarm over the authenticity of legal qualifications, observing that it sometimes felt the Central Bureau of Investigation should verify the degrees of many individuals “wearing black robes”. It sharply criticised the Bar Council of India for its inaction, remarking that the regulatory body would not act because “they need their votes.”
Following the stringent observations, the petitioner tendered an apology and sought permission to withdraw his plea. The Supreme Court allowed the petition to be withdrawn, bringing the tense courtroom exchange to a close.
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