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Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad (ABAP) (English: All India Lawyer's Council) is a national organisation of lawyers in India. It has been described by scholars and media sources as being affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organisation, and is often referred to as the RSS’s legal wing or legal front.
The Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad (ABAP) was founded in September 1992 by Dattopant Thengadi, a social activist and trade unionist associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Thengadi was also the founder of several other RSS-affiliated organisations, including the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch, Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, and Bharatiya Kisan Sangh.
According to the organisation, ABAP seeks to develop an “Indo-centric legal system” rooted in Indian traditions and philosophical thought. Its stated objectives include promoting social justice, safeguarding human rights, and narrowing the gap between the legal system and the general public. The organisation also claims to contribute to legal and policy discourse through research, publications, and the submission of legal memoranda.
ABAP has, however, faced criticism from scholars and media commentators for its close association with the RSS. It has been described as a legal front or legal wing of the Hindu nationalist organisation rather than an independent professional body. Media reports have further noted that the organisation supports litigation initiatives and legal research aligned with the ideological objectives of the RSS.
Activities
The ABAP operates through its branches in all Indian states and union territories connected via local, district, and state-level networks of lawyers.[1] The ABAP organizes legal awareness programs, professional development seminars, and national conferences for advocates and law students across the country.[2] It also advocates for the use of Indian languages in the legal system,[3][4] the “Indianization” of the judiciary,[5] transparency in judicial appointments,[6] and reforms to make the justice system "more responsive to the needs of the down-trodden and the have-nots."[7]
Nyaya Kendra
The Nyaya Kendras are legal aid centers established by ABAP to make justice accessible to economically and socially disadvantaged communities.[7]
Legal Awareness Camps
ABAP conducts Legal Awareness Camps to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities.[7]
Educational Initiatives
ABAP organizes seminars, symposiums, and workshops at the national, state, district, and court levels. Court units hold periodic study circles under the guidance of senior advocates to discuss legal developments, new bills, and amendments.[7]
Public Interest Litigation
ABAP has supported public interest litigations on behalf of marginalized groups, including Scheduled Castes and Tribes, farmers, informal workers, and women. These cases are often filed by local activists and organizations. They are then represented and guided by advocates associated with ABAP.[7]
Study and Research Groups
State and national study groups examine new and amended laws, bills, and judicial reforms.
ABAP also publishes a quarterly bilingual magazine, Nyaya Pravah.[8]
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