Heard learned counsel appearing on behalf of the appellant and the
respondent, who has appeared in-person.
By the impugned order, the Disciplinary Committee of Bar Council of
India found the appellant guilty of professional misconduct and directed that his
name be removed from the rolls of the State Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana.
On 31st October, 2006, notice was issued only on the quantum of
punishment. At that time, operation of the impugned order was not stayed.
Having heard learned counsel for the appellant and the respondent and
perused the records, we are of the view that, in the facts and circumstances of the
case, it would be just and expedient if the punishment of removal of the appellant’s
name from the rolls of the State Bar Council is substituted with that of suspension of
his licence for a period of six months from today.
...2/-
Accordingly, the appeal is allowed in-part and, while upholding the finding
of processional misconduct, we set aside the direction given for removal of the
appellant’s name from the rolls of the State Bar Council and direct that his licence
shall remain suspended for a period of six months from today.
[G.S. SINGHVI] New Delhi, January 07, 2009.