Unemployed Youngsters Like Cockroaches Become Media, Activists: CJI Surya Kant

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday made strong remarks during a hearing in the Supreme Court, stating that some unemployed youngsters become “media”, social media users, RTI activists, and other activists “like cockroaches” before “attacking the system.”

The remarks came during the hearing of a petition connected to the designation of a lawyer as a Senior Advocate before a bench comprising CJI Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi.

Court Questions Lawyer’s Conduct

During the proceedings, the bench sharply criticised the petitioner lawyer for what it described as an aggressive pursuit of Senior Advocate designation. The court also questioned the lawyer’s conduct and referred to language allegedly used by him on Facebook.

“The entire world may be eligible to become senior (advocate), but at least you are not entitled,” the bench told the petitioner.

A visibly displeased CJI Surya Kant further observed that if the Delhi High Court were to grant Senior Advocate designation to the petitioner, the Supreme Court would consider setting it aside in view of his professional conduct.

Referring to the lawyer’s social media activity, the CJI remarked:

“There are already parasites of society who attack the system and you want to join hands with them?”

He further stated:

“There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don't get any employment or have any place in profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, RTI activists and other activists and they start attacking everyone.”

Senior Advocate Designation “Not a Status Symbol”

The bench emphasised that the designation of Senior Advocate is a recognition conferred upon deserving lawyers and not something that should be pursued aggressively.

“You are pursuing it. Does it look proper?” the court asked.

The judges also questioned whether the designation had increasingly become a symbolic status marker rather than a professional recognition earned through standing at the Bar.

The court further asked the petitioner whether he had no other litigation work and questioned whether such conduct was appropriate for someone aspiring to become a Senior Advocate.

Concerns Over Fake Law Degrees

During the hearing, the Supreme Court also expressed concern regarding the authenticity of degrees held by several lawyers practising in courts.

CJI Surya Kant observed that the court was considering asking the Central Bureau of Investigation to verify the degrees of many lawyers wearing black coats because of serious doubts over their genuineness.

The bench also remarked that the Bar Council of India was unlikely to take action on the issue because “they need their votes.”

Petition Withdrawn After Apology

Following the court’s observations, the petitioner apologised to the bench and sought permission to withdraw the petition.

The Supreme Court subsequently allowed the withdrawal plea. 


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