BCI chairman rejects resignation demand as political vendetta

Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra has rejected a call for his resignation from senior advocate YR Sadasiva Reddy, calling it a "political vendetta" and a "political stunt." Reddy, who styles himself as BCI co-chairman, had written a letter demanding Mishra step down within 15 days over alleged irregularities including questionable appointments, fund transfers, and the NALSAR enrolment controversy. Mishra countered that Reddy is no longer a BCI member, having failed to contest the Karnataka Bar Council elections, and that he has the support of two-thirds of the council.

The clash has exposed deep divisions within the legal body. BCI member Manoj Kumar Narendran formally raised the resignation demand at a General Council meeting, supported by another member from Uttar Pradesh. Narendran wrote that Mishra's 14-year uninterrupted tenure is "unhealthy" for a democratic institution and that the chairman has made sweeping statements branding student protesters as "anti-national" without council approval. Reddy separately alleged Mishra acts "like a dictator," issuing orders without placing matters before the council.

Mishra defended his record, saying he is an elected representative and has been chairman for seven terms. He challenged Reddy to contest elections and defeat him "like a man." A press conference Mishra had scheduled for Saturday has been postponed to Monday.