"BCI Prohibits Private Law Universities from Using 'Indian,' 'Bharatiya,' 'National' in Competitions"

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has directed private law universities to stop using terms like "Bharatiya," "National," "Indian," and similar prefixes when organizing moot courts and other competitions. However, this restriction does not apply to National Law Universities (NLUs) or central and state universities affiliated with the government. The BCI's directive refers to the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, which prohibits using names that imply government or national authority without Central Government approval. Section 3 of the Act bars individuals or organizations from using names like "India," "Indian," "National," "Bharat," or any other name suggesting government affiliation for professional or commercial purposes without prior consent. Section 4 also prohibits registering entities with such names. The decision aims to prevent misleading practices where institutions without proper authorization host events under "all India" titles, creating confusion among participants by falsely implying government endorsement. The unauthorized use of these names has also been linked to securing sponsorships under the guise of hosting officially sanctioned national-level events. The BCI clarified that as a statutory body, it is authorized to host competitions using these titles. National Law Universities and state or central universities can also use the term "National" for their competitions, provided they inform the central government to maintain transparency. Immediate compliance with these guidelines is mandatory, and the BCI will enforce strict measures against violators. Non-compliance could result in consequences such as revoking the university's recognition, legal action under the Emblems Act, and disqualification from hosting future moot court competitions. www.legalmeet.in