The president of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association, Vikas Malik, was suspended from practising law in a shocking move. This was done on Wednesday by the Punjab and Haryana Bar Council following numerous complaints against him. This move has not only put his leadership at stake but also the very existence of the Bar Association.
The primary allegation against Malik stems from an assault case filed by another advocate, Ranjit Singh, earlier this month. The incident reportedly occurred at the Bar office itself. This wasn’t the only blow Malik faced. On July 4th, the same day Chandigarh police added sections about the SC/ST Act and attempted murder to an existing criminal case against him.
Following these developments, Malik relinquished his position as president, handing over the reins to vice president Jasdev Singh Brar. However, the damage was done. Lawyers on the judicial side of the High Court petitioned for intervention, urging the Bar Council to investigate allegations of Malik potentially embezzling Bar Association funds.
The Bar Council, under pressure from the High Court and facing serious accusations against its President, initiated a probe. The investigation culminated in Wednesday’s suspension order. Citing a “series of events” that painted a picture of Malik attempting to obstruct justice and tarnishing the reputation of the Bar Association presidency, the Bar Council suspended his license.
The order effectively bars Malik from practising law in any court until the investigation concludes. This case has significant implications for the Bar Association and the legal community at large. The seriousness of the charges – assault, tampering with justice, and potential financial misconduct – raises questions about Malik’s conduct and the Bar Association’s ability to self-regulate.
While the investigation unfolds, several key details remain unclear. The specifics surrounding the alleged assault and the nature of the financial accusations against Malik haven’t been made public. It’s also uncertain whether Malik will contest the suspension or cooperate with the investigation.
There is no doubt that the situation is being closely monitored by the legal profession in Chandigarh, this is very crucial for Malik as it will lead him to another disciplinary measure or even be told to quit practising law anywhere else if he is found guilty after investigations by the regulatory authority who is investigating his conduct such that credibility of Bar Association is salvaged and legal system integrity is maintained.
