London, June 6, 2025 

Chief Justice of India, Dr. B.R. Gavai, has lauded the recent move by the Bar Council of India (BCI) to allow limited entry of foreign lawyers into India, calling it a timely step that can transform India into a hub for international commercial arbitration.

Speaking at an international legal conference held in London focused on India-UK arbitration cooperation, the CJI said that permitting foreign legal practitioners in non-litigious sectors such as advisory roles and international arbitration will raise professional standards, foster collaboration, and build global confidence in India’s legal infrastructure.

“The controlled entry of foreign lawyers for arbitration and international legal consulting will only enrich our system. It brings in best practices and deepens our own arbitration capacities,” Justice Gavai remarked during his address to legal professionals and arbitrators from both jurisdictions.

The Bar Council of India had, through a formal notification, permitted foreign law firms and lawyers to operate in India under strict regulatory oversight, with their scope limited to advising on foreign and international law, as well as participating in arbitration proceedings involving international commercial matters. The move does not extend to litigation or advocacy before Indian courts.

CJI Gavai emphasized that the step will not dilute the status of Indian legal professionals but will instead open up new avenues for Indian lawyers to be part of global legal processes, especially in arbitration and cross-border transactions. He also noted that India is now home to emerging arbitration centres such as MCIA (Mumbai), DIAC (Delhi), and IIAC (New Delhi), and foreign lawyer participation could increase their international visibility.

Legal experts attending the event echoed similar sentiments, viewing the move as a progressive step that aligns with India’s ambition to become a global arbitration destination.