P.C.

1. We have heard Mr. Santosh Paul, learned Senior Advocate appearing for the petitioner. The petitioner appears in person. At the outset we may observe that the petitioner stated before us on the earlier occasion, that as the proceedings are against the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa (BCMG) and as also against the Bar Council of India (BCI), she could not engage the services of an advocate who would be willing to file vakalatnama on her behalf. Mr. Paul, Senior Advocate has appeared for the petitioner. He intends to make submissions through Video Conferencing. Considering the well settled principles, as also recognised under the Advocates Act, a litigant needs to be permitted to be represented by a person of his/her choice in court proceedings. Accordingly we intend to hear Mr. Paul, learned Senior Advocate.

2. The writ petition is served on the Respondents. On 14th January 2025, we had issued notice when the following order was passed:-

1. Petitioner has filed this petition in-person. She states that she intends to be represented by an Advocate on record. Let Vakalatnama on behalf of petitioner be accordingly entered.

2. Issue notice to the respondents, returnable on 21 Januar