BCI seeks CBI probe into LLB degree of Delhi Bar Council Vice-Chairman, temporarily removes him

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has sought a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged irregularities surrounding the LL.B. (Hons.) degree of advocate Sanjeev Nasiar, Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi..Following an inquiry initiated as per Delhi High Court directions, the BCI has resolved to act on findings that revealed significant discrepancies in the degree's authenticity.The inquiry stemmed from directions issued by the Delhi High Court in a writ petition. A sub-committee of the BCI was tasked on September 3, 2024, to examine the authenticity of Nasiar’s degree, purportedly awarded in 1988 by Devi Ahilyabai Vishvavidyalaya, Indore..The inquiry revealed significant discrepancies. It was found that the college was not authorized to conduct an LL.B. (Hons.) program during the relevant period, and the program itself had not been introduced under Bar Council regulations until 2008, making the 1988 degree implausible. Furthermore, academic records provided to the sub-committee appeared tampered with and the investigation was also hindered by the non-cooperation of university officials."The inquiry has revealed significant and glaring discrepancies in the records relating to Mr. Sanjeev Nasiar’s Degree. The inspection of P.M.B. Gujarati Arts and Law College, Indore, disclosed that the college was not authorized to conduct an LL.B. (Hons.) Course during the relevant period. The academic records provided to the Subcommittee appeared tampered or fabricated with uniform handwriting and ink consistency spanning an extended period. Additionally, it was established that the LL.B. (Hons) program was introduced under The Bar Council of India regulations only in 2008, rendering the degree in question, purportedly issued in 1988, inconsistent with regulatory requirements," a BCI press release dated December 8 states..The sub-committee concluded that the degree in question was highly questionable. During its meeting on December 7, 2024, the BCI adopted the sub-committee's findings and directed its Secretary to request the CBI to investigate the matter further.In the interim, the BCI has removed Nasiar from his position as Vice-Chairman, emphasizing that this measure is essential to protect the integrity of the legal profession and maintain public trust. .[Read Press Release]