BackLAW
CJI Surya Kant slams jobless youngsters as 'cockroaches', warns of RTI activists and potential CBI probe into law degrees
On May 15, 2026, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant likened unemployed youths to cockroaches who become media and RTI activists to attack the system. He also raised concerns about fake law degrees among Delhi advocates and signaled a possible CBI investigation, while a petitioner withdrew their petition; the Bar Council of India was described as unlikely to act. The remarks occurred during a bench hearing.
Why It Matters
The remarks highlight tensions around youth activism, social media discourse, and integrity in the legal profession, including potential investigations into qualifications.
Timeline
4 Events
Bar Council of India described as unlikely to act due to political considerations
May 15, 2026
The bench stated that the Bar Council of India would not take action on this issue because 'they need their votes'.
Court expresses concern over fake law degrees among Delhi advocates; signals possible CBI probe
May 15, 2026
The bench expressed concern over what it saw as a growing number of lawyers allegedly holding fake law degrees and said it was waiting for an appropriate case to order a CBI investigation into the law degrees of many Delhi advocates, whose posts on social media it found problematic.
Petitioner apologises and seeks withdrawal of petition; withdrawal permitted
May 15, 2026
The petitioner then apologised to the bench and sought permission to withdraw the petition; and that withdrawal was permitted.
CJI Surya Kant's remark comparing unemployed youths to cockroaches and noting they become media/RTI activists
May 15, 2026
During the hearing, the CJI said there are youngsters, like cockroaches, who don't get employment or have a place in profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, RTI activists and other activists, and they start attacking everyone, he remarked. He also said there are already parasites of society who attack the system and you want to join hands with them.