SCBA: Show Cause Notice Issued to Balraj Malik Over Misconduct

• The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) issued a show cause notice to Advocate Balraj Singh Malik on October 13.
• The notice addresses alleged misconduct by Malik towards SCBA President Pradeep Kumar Rai.
• Allegations include the use of unparliamentary language, intimidation during media interviews, and a derogatory WhatsApp message.
• The SCBA Executive Committee reviewed a complaint and found a prima facie case against Malik.
• Malik has been asked to explain why he should not face suspension or expulsion from the association.

This SCBA disciplinary action against Balraj Singh Malik serves as a critical reminder to lawyers across India regarding the stringent standards of professional conduct and decorum expected of them, particularly in their interactions with bar association officials.

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Advocate Balraj Singh Malik, issuing a show cause notice on October 13. This action stems from alleged inappropriate behavior directed towards the SCBA's President, Senior Advocate Pradeep Kumar Rai. The notice, formally dispatched by SCBA Honorary Secretary Pragya Baghel, demands an explanation from Malik regarding why he should not face suspension or expulsion from the esteemed association. This significant development follows a public confrontation that occurred on the Supreme Court lawns on a recent Monday, an incident captured on video which subsequently gained widespread attention across social media platforms.

The Executive Committee of the SCBA reviewed a formal complaint lodged against Malik, determining that there was a prima facie case warranting further investigation and response from the advocate. The confrontation itself took place as the President and other Executive Committee members had convened on the lawns around 1:15 PM. Their gathering was intended to express solidarity with fellow advocates who had reportedly been subjected to physical assault during a protest held on October 10, 2026. This backdrop highlights the sensitive environment in which the alleged misconduct occurred, leading to the current disciplinary inquiry.

The show cause notice details several specific instances of alleged misconduct by Balraj Singh Malik. It asserts that the SCBA President, Pradeep Kumar Rai, was subjected to "unparliamentary language and intimidation" during various media interviews. The notice further highlights that this incident, involving the use of such language, has been extensively disseminated across both social media channels and national news broadcasts, underscoring its public nature and potential impact on the association's reputation.

Adding to the gravity of the allegations, the SCBA notice also references a WhatsApp message purportedly sent by Malik. In this message, he is accused of referring to a member of the Executive Committee using the derogatory term "dalal," meaning 'broker.' The SCBA explicitly emphasizes that its office bearers, including the President and members of the Executive Committee, are democratically elected representatives of the association. Their decisions are made through a majority vote, and therefore, any alleged improper conduct or language directed towards them raises serious concerns regarding the decorum and respect expected within the legal fraternity. This stance underscores the SCBA's commitment to upholding the integrity of its leadership and the established processes of the organization.

This SCBA disciplinary action against Balraj Singh Malik serves as a critical reminder to lawyers across India regarding the stringent standards of professional conduct and decorum expected of them, particularly in their interactions with bar association officials. The potential for suspension or expulsion from the Supreme Court Bar Association underscores the serious consequences that can arise from alleged advocate misconduct. Such proceedings highlight the bar's commitment to maintaining a respectful and orderly environment, essential for the effective functioning of the legal system.

The incident, involving a face-off with the SCBA President Pradeep Kumar Rai and allegations of unparliamentary language and intimidation, demonstrates that professional bodies like the Supreme Court Bar Association are prepared to take firm action when their elected representatives are disrespected. Lawyers must be acutely aware that behaviors deemed unprofessional, including the use of offensive language or attempts to intimidate, can trigger formal disciplinary processes. This case reinforces the principle that all members of the legal profession are accountable for their conduct, and adherence to ethical guidelines is paramount for continued membership and standing within the bar.

This development serves as a critical reminder to lawyers regarding the standards of professional conduct and decorum expected, particularly in interactions with bar association officials. Lawyers should be aware that alleged misconduct, including the use of unparliamentary language or intimidation, can lead to disciplinary proceedings, including potential suspension or expulsion from the bar association.

Source: Original reporting via Bar & Bench