Surat lawyer moves Bar Council over stand-up comedian’s ‘derogatory’ remarks on advocates
In his application, Surat-based Kamlesh Raval sought to raise an objection to “hurtful, defamatory and derogatory comments against lawyers/legal profession”.
It seeks strict action against the stand-up comedian, and that he (Sharma) should apologise and ensure that he does not repeat such statements in future.
A SURAT lawyer on Friday submitted an application to the Bar Council of India, the Bar Council of Gujarat and the Surat District Bar Association against stand-up comedian Badal Sharma over the latter’s “derogatory” remarks on lawyers during one of his shows.
In his application, Surat-based Kamlesh Raval sought to raise an objection to “hurtful, defamatory and derogatory comments against lawyers/legal profession”.
Badal Sharma was unavailable for comment on the matter.
Raval alleged that Badal Sharma, during his live performance in a show, subjected lawyers to “insulting generalisations”.
Raval’s application adds that “comedy and artistic expression undoubtedly enjoy freedom in a democratic nation; however, such freedom also carries responsibility. Public remarks that demean an entire profession can create social prejudice, erode public trust, and cause emotional harm to members of the legal fraternity.”
It seeks strict action against the stand-up comedian, and that he (Sharma) should apologise and ensure that he does not repeat such statements in future.
Raval told The Indian Express on Friday, “While surfing through social media, I heard him (Sharma) saying such statements in one of the shows. I have kept the recording as evidence. His statements hurt the dignity of lawyers across the country. Seven more shows of this stand-up comedian are scheduled across the country but if he does not apologise, lawyers will oppose such shows in future.”
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