AIBE Fees: Supreme Court Seeks BCI's Response on PIL Challenging INR 3,500 All India Bar Examination

The AIBE fee, according to the petitioner, violates the Supreme Court's 2024 ruling in Gaurav Kumar v. Union of India, which set the enrolment fee cap at INR 750 for candidates in the general category and INR 125 for candidates in the SC/ST category under Section 24(1)(f) of the Advocates Act, 1961. Gandhi claimed that since the AIBE is a prerequisite for practicing law, it should be followed.

AIBE Fees: Supreme Court Seeks BCI's Response on PIL Challenging INR 3,500 All India Bar Examination

In response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) contesting INR 3,500 fee assessed for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE), the Supreme Court has sent a notice to the Bar Council of India (BCI). Advocate Sanyam Gandhi filed a plea with the bench, which is made up of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan. Gandhi argued that the AIBE Fee is excessive and in violation of the law.

The Case's Background

The AIBE fee, according to the petitioner, violates the Supreme Court's 2024 ruling in Gaurav Kumar v. Union of India, which set the enrolment fee cap at INR 750 for candidates in the general category and INR 125 for candidates in the SC/ST category under Section 24(1)(f) of the Advocates Act, 1961. Gandhi claimed that since the AIBE is a prerequisite for practicing law, it should be followed.

Observations of the Court

The Supreme Court had previously refused to consider a similar plea on February 24, 2025, citing the need for bar councils to remain financially viable and recommending that the petitioner first approach the BCI.  However, the Court has shown a willingness to re-examine the matter by requesting a formal answer from the BCI in the current proceedings.

Consequences and Upcoming Actions

The Court's choice to send such a notice raises the possibility of a review of the AIBE fee schedule.  In response to the notice, the BCI is anticipated to explain why the present cost is appropriate and how it complies with legal requirements.  Aspiring solicitors may be significantly impacted by the outcome, especially those from low-income families.