HC orders notice to Banking Ombudsman

Kochi, Nov 8 (UNI) Justice S Sirijagan of the Kerala High Court today ordered notice to Banking Ombudsman and the Union of India on a writ petition filed by the Everstar India Agro-industries Ltd., Kasaragod, seeking a declaration that lawyers are entitled to practise before the Banking Ombudsman.

The existing rules not permit advocates to appear before the Banking Ombudsman on behalf of their clients.

The petitioner contended that this was against the Advocates Act, 1961 and the Constitution of India.

There was a dispute between the Andhra Bank and the petitioner and it filed a petition before the Banking Ombudsman. However, the petition was dismmised and it was not allowed to represent through a lawyer before the Ombudsman. Following this, the firm filed the writ petition before the High Court.

UNI XR PMM AD/DK1828