Supreme Court Advocates Assn. Lambasts ED for Issuing Notice to Adv. Arvind Datar on Basis of Legal Opinion to Client

The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has strongly criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for issuing a notice to senior advocate Arvind Datar. The notice was reportedly issued based on a legal opinion that Mr. Datar had provided to a client. The SCAORA has termed this action as an "assault on the independence of the legal profession" and a "breach of advocate-client privilege." The association argued that a lawyer cannot be held liable or questioned by an investigative agency for the professional advice they render to their clients. They emphasized that this action could create a climate of fear, preventing lawyers from giving frank and fearless advice. The legal community has rallied in support, stating that this sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the fundamental principles of legal representation and client confidentiality.