The Jharkhand government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, has taken a significant step towards the welfare of advocates practicing in the state.
On September 6, 2024, the state cabinet approved a bill that provides medical insurance, pension, and stipends for lawyers, marking a notable development in legal support across India.
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Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill, which is set to benefit approximately 30,000 advocates practicing in Jharkhand, includes the following major provisions:
- Medical Insurance Cover: Every practicing advocate in Jharkhand will be entitled to a medical insurance cover of ₹5 lakh. This initiative aims to ensure that lawyers can access quality healthcare without the burden of high medical costs.
- Pension Scheme: Advocates will receive a monthly pension of ₹14,000 upon retirement. This provision brings much-needed financial security for those who have served in the legal profession for years.
- Stipend for New Advocates: To encourage and support young professionals entering the legal field, the government will provide a stipend of ₹5,000 per month to all new advocates for the first five years of practice. This will help junior lawyers during their initial years when they are building their careers.
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Background and Inspiration
The idea for this bill was first suggested by Advocate General Rajiv Rajan, who presented it to the state government.
His efforts, along with the government’s proactive stance, have resulted in a pioneering scheme that is likely to set a benchmark for other states in India.
This bill follows similar initiatives taken by other states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi to support the legal community.
In 2023, the Kerala government introduced a stipend scheme offering ₹3,000 per month to young advocates under 30 years of age, provided they have less than three years of practice and an annual income below ₹1 lakh.
Similarly, the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry issued a circular earlier this year mandating a stipend of ₹20,000 for junior lawyers employed by senior advocates in major cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
Legal Welfare in Other States
While Jharkhand’s new bill is one of the most comprehensive welfare programs for lawyers, other states have also been working on initiatives to support legal professionals.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has recently urged the Central government to introduce a health insurance scheme for advocates and their families, highlighting the need for better medical security across the country.
The Delhi High Court has also stepped in, directing the BCI to decide on a representation for paying a minimum stipend to junior lawyers within six weeks.
This is a significant move, as young advocates often face financial challenges while establishing themselves in the profession.
Furthermore, a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Allahabad High Court earlier this year, seeking a comprehensive health insurance policy for lawyers registered with the Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh.
The issue of medical insurance has gained attention in various states, underlining the necessity of safeguarding lawyers’ welfare.
Verdict
The Jharkhand government’s decision to approve this bill is a major milestone in providing financial stability and healthcare security for lawyers in the state.
The scheme will not only benefit seasoned advocates but also offer crucial support to young lawyers as they begin their careers.
With similar initiatives being implemented in other states, India is witnessing a growing focus on improving the welfare of legal professionals, ensuring their well-being in a demanding profession.