Združenje odvetnikov vrhovnega sodišča je na videoposnetkih odvetnikov zadelo "ne maram".

The Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA) has taken issue with a series of social media reels created by lawyers, pressing the “dislike” button on content it deems unprofessional and unethical. The association accused the videos of undermining the dignity and standards expected of legal practitioners. According to reports, the controversy began with a video shared on Instagram by a Kottayam-based lawyer. The reel showed the lawyer working out in sportswear at a gym and later appearing in court dress during proceedings. The footage intermixed images from both locations, prompting a formal complaint against the lawyer. The KHCAA’s secretary, Nima Jacob, confirmed that the association had received similar complaints regarding other reels, some of which were filmed within the premises of the Kerala High Court. In one instance, a female lawyer narrated her day in court while interacting with a colleague in the courthouse corridors. The video, shot inside the court complex, drew attention from the KHCAA. Ms. Jacob explained that such content often begins with a legal professional describing their workday, typically in court attire, and then transitions to unrelated settings, such as restaurants or private residences. This, she argued, could misrepresent the seriousness of legal work and potentially expose sensitive information. The KHCAA has instructed its members to avoid creating social media content related to court activities. In a recent circular, the association warned that such actions might lead to disciplinary measures under the Advocates Act. The association plans to conduct a preliminary investigation into the incident involving the Kottayam lawyer and forward the case to the Bar Council of Kerala and the Registry of the Kerala High Court, which have authority to take legal action in such matters. The Bar Council of India had previously issued guidelines addressing concerns over the increasing trend of recording and filming within court premises. These rules aim to prevent the spread of misinformation, the publicizing of confidential discussions, and the circulation of false or altered judicial decisions. The council emphasized the need for professionalism and discretion in handling court-related content. Ms. Jacob noted that while some lawyers may view these reels as a form of personal expression or marketing, the association believes they risk compromising the integrity of the profession. She added that the association would continue monitoring such activity and taking necessary steps to uphold ethical standards. The affected lawyer did not respond to requests for comment, leaving the situation unresolved. As the KHCAA moves forward with its investigation, the broader legal community awaits further clarification on how such content will be regulated moving forward. Legal experts suggest that the debate reflects growing tensions between digital engagement and traditional professional norms in the legal field.