Telangana Bar Council polls witness record turnout

The Telangana State Bar Council elections, held after nearly eight years, saw an impressive turnout with 82 per cent of registered advocates casting their votes. Polling took place across the High Court, district, and subordinate courts, with 203 candidates contesting.

By Legal Correspondent

Hyderabad: A massive turnout was witnessed in the Telangana State Bar Council elections held on Friday after a gap of nearly eight years.

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Lawyers across the State enthusiastically exercised their right to vote at polling centres set up in the High Court as well as district and other subordinate courts.

Polling began at 10.30 am and continued till 5.00 pm. Advocates who were present in queues before the closing time were permitted to cast their votes. As many as 203 candidates contested the polls.

Around 35,000 advocates registered with various Bar Associations were eligible to vote. According to preliminary estimates, an impressive 82 per cent polling was recorded, reflecting keen interest among members of the legal fraternity. After completion of polling, ballot boxes from all districts were transported to the Telangana High Court. Counting of votes is scheduled to be taken up on February 10.

The election is being conducted under the preferential voting system, under which the 23 candidates securing the highest number of votes will be elected as members of the Bar Council. In addition, two women members will be nominated through co-option.

In view of the Supreme Court’s judgment mandating 30 per cent reservation for women, it is expected that around seven women advocates, including the two co-opted members, will find place in the newly constituted Bar Council.

The newly elected Bar Council members will subsequently elect the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and one member to represent the State in the Bar Council of India (BCI).