Adish C. Aggarwala, the former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), has called on the current president, Kapil Sibal, to either retract a controversial resolution passed on August 21, 2024, or publicly apologize to all SCBA members.
If Sibal fails to do so, Aggarwala warns that a no-confidence motion may be initiated against him.
In a letter addressed to Sibal, Aggarwala raised serious concerns about a resolution related to the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Aggarwala criticized Sibal for issuing what he claims is an unauthorized SCBA resolution that downplays the severity of the incident by referring to it as a “symptomatic malaise” and implying that such tragedies are common.
Aggarwala argues that the resolution was never officially approved by the SCBA’s Executive Committee, making it invalid. He also accuses Sibal of misusing his position to minimize the gravity of the situation and of having a conflict of interest, as Sibal is representing the West Bengal government in related legal matters.
The letter demands that Sibal withdraw the resolution and apologize publicly within 72 hours. If Sibal does not comply, Aggarwala indicates that a no-confidence motion could be pursued.
Aggarwala’s letter further criticizes Sibal for attempting to undermine the seriousness of the RG Kar Medical College case, which is under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court of India and the CBI. He argues that by involving the Chief Justice of India and issuing an unofficial SCBA resolution, Sibal has not only tried to influence the court and the ongoing investigation but also damaged the credibility and integrity of his role as SCBA President. Aggarwala claims that this action has hurt both the medical and legal communities and tarnished the SCBA’s reputation.
Several members of the SCBA’s Executive Committee have also voiced concerns about the resolution issued by Sibal. They allege that the resolution, dated August 21, 2024, was signed by Sibal and circulated on SCBA letterhead without the committee’s approval or knowledge.
