News

A total of 24 out of the 25 new members were present during Wednesday's first official meeting of the newly constituted election committee that was held at the Delhi Bar Council headquarters in Siri Fort.

The members have decided that they will finalise the election of several senior posts and committees at their next meeting on 1 February.

They also appointed a number of members to temporary positions in the Delhi Bar Council, to become chairman, secretary and to oversee enrolment during the transitionary period.

Former Bar Council of India (BCI) chairman Ved Prakash Sharma confirmed the development and said: "The first formal meeting was convened earlier this week and we now have our election committee in place.

"Although, no date has been finalised yet, but in all likelihood we would be in a position to fill the post of chairman, vice chairman, Bar Council of India member and secretary in the first week of February."

He explained that these were the only four office bearers whose selection was effected through voting, whereas members of the other committees are usually decided in the course of discussion and dialogue.

There is only one position for each of the roles of chairman, vice-chairman, secretary, treasurer and Bar Council of India delegate member.

Up to three members will be appointed to each of the commitees such as the enrolment, disciplinary, welfare and library committees.

It is understood that the process usually involves protracted negotiations and bargains that are being struck between members for the most coveted positions.

Jaiveer Nagar, who is the youngest member of the Council, has been made the temporary chairman for one month, Rajesh Mishra has been appointed to serve as temporary secretary and Luthra & Luthra partner Vijay Sondhi was given charge of the enrolment committee until the final allocations are made.

The Bar Council of Delhi elections concluded on 18 December 2009.

Counting for the Maharashtra and Goa Bar Council elections are currently ongoing, with one law firm candidate Hitesh Jain from ALMT Legal also contesting.