The Supreme Court has updated rules for visually impaired students taking law entrance exams. The decision impacts the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) and the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT). Visually impaired candidates now have expanded scribe eligibility. These changes take effect immediately.
New Scribe Rules for Law Exams
Visually impaired students can use scribes with higher education. Previously, scribes were limited to those with 10+2 qualifications. Now, candidates with qualifications beyond 10+2 can also serve as scribes. This provides more options for students needing assistance.
However, a key restriction remains. Scribes cannot possess a law degree. This rule prevents any potential unfair advantage for the candidate. The scribe must understand exam instructions without having advanced legal knowledge.
The Supreme Court specified the new guidelines. Specially-abled candidates with visual impairment can use an undergraduate scribe. This scribe must not be studying law or humanities. This clarifies that a scribe holding a qualification higher than 10+2 is permissible. The court aims for fair testing conditions for all candidates.
Implementation and Next Steps
The Bar Council of India (BCI) and the Consortium of National Law Universities (CNLUs) must implement these changes. The Supreme Court has directed immediate adoption of the revised rules. This ensures current and future exam cycles reflect the new standards.
Both the BCI and CNLUs are instructed to announce the updated rules. This announcement must happen well before the exams. This advance notice allows students to secure an eligible scribe. The goal is to ensure every student has a fair chance to succeed.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, issued the verdict. The court emphasizes accessibility and equal opportunity in legal education admissions. These revisions address concerns raised about accessibility for visually impaired students.