New Delhi, May 17 -- The amended Bar Council of India (BCI) Rules regarding the entry of foreign lawyers and law firms into India have elicited mixed reactions both domestically and internationally.

Rohit Kochhar, Chairman & Managing Partner of Kochhar & Co., highlights that while the amendments have been introduced with great enthusiasm, it remains uncertain whether changes to the Advocates Act, 1961, are required before their implementation.

A key concern is the lack of a level playing field. Rule 36 of the BCI Rules strictly prohibits Indian lawyers from advertising or soliciting work, including participating in interviews or media commentary. In contrast, foreign firms actively engage in business development through dedicated market...