Home > Recent Judgements > Kerala Bar Council Issues Show Cause Notice to Advocate Over Social Media Reel Involving HC Judge’s Official Car
Jun 04, 2025
Kerala Bar Council Issues Show Cause Notice to Advocate Over Social Media Reel Involving HC Judge’s Official Car
In a development that reflects the increasing scrutiny of legal professionals’ conduct in the digital era, the Kerala Bar Council has issued a show cause notice to a newly enrolled advocate, reportedly named Fayiz Muthuvatoor, for posting a celebratory Instagram reel that included footage of a High Court judge’s official car.
This incident has triggered a debate around the intersection of professional decorum, privacy, and the growing influence of social media on the legal profession.
Background of the Incident
The controversy arose when the newly enrolled advocate shared a reel on Instagram to mark his enrollment. The reel reportedly featured visuals outside the High Court premises, including a glimpse of an official vehicle attributed to a sitting judge. While the intention behind the post may have been celebratory and personal, the inclusion of a judge’s official car in a public social media post raised red flags concerning judicial privacy and professional propriety.
The Bar Council of Kerala took swift action by issuing a show cause notice, seeking an explanation for what it deemed inappropriate use of sensitive visuals and a possible breach of decorum expected from members of the Bar.
Legal and Ethical Dimensions
This situation is significant as it touches upon multiple critical concerns:
- Professional Conduct and Public Image: Advocates are expected to uphold the dignity of the profession, both within and outside the courtroom. The Bar Council Rules, particularly under the Advocates Act, 1961, emphasize that lawyers should refrain from actions that could diminish the integrity of the legal system.
- Judicial Sensitivity and Security: Featuring the official vehicle of a judge, potentially traceable, raises concerns related to judicial independence, security, and privacy. Such visual material can be misused or misinterpreted in the public domain.
- Social media and the Legal Profession: As younger legal professionals increasingly use platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to share career milestones, regulatory bodies now face the challenge of balancing freedom of expression with professional ethics. The case spotlights the need for clearer guidelines on what constitutes acceptable online conduct for lawyers.
Implications and Need for Guidance
While this may be a relatively minor infraction in terms of intent, it raises broader implications:
- Precedent for Digital Conduct: This action may set a precedent in how bar councils across India regulate social media behavior among advocates.
- Need for Clarity: There is a growing need for specific advisories or codes of conduct that address digital representation and online interactions by legal professionals.
- Educative Opportunity: Instead of mere penal action, such cases can serve as teachable moments through orientation sessions for newly enrolled advocates regarding digital ethics.
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The Kerala Bar Council’s move reflects its commitment to preserving the dignity and decorum of the legal profession. At the same time, it underlines the evolving challenges posed by digital platforms in professional spheres. As the legal community increasingly engages with the online world, regulatory bodies must proactively define boundaries and equip professionals with the guidance necessary to maintain ethical standards in a rapidly changing environment.
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