Insurance Scheme Gridlock: High Court Urges Prompt Action

The Allahabad High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Uttar Pradesh government's law remembrancer for failing to submit a response regarding a proposed group-insurance scheme for government advocates. The Lucknow bench, emphasizing the importance of the issue, granted the LR one final week to comply before the next hearing on May 25.

This development arose from a public interest litigation addressing the need for insurance and enhanced financial help for advocates in the state. Challenges, including the high premium rates, have stalled the implementation of the insurance plan for private lawyers. The Oudh Bar Association, with about 14,000 members, stated it cannot afford the estimated Rs 7 crore premium.

During previous sessions, the court noted the LR's lack of awareness about a prior order dated May 30, 2024. The court had initially directed the framework of group-insurance coverage for all government advocates in Uttar Pradesh. Despite several directives, the LR has yet to respond, leading the court to express its displeasure.

(With inputs from agencies.)