In a strong affirmation of procedural integrity, the Privilege Committee of the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana has fully exonerated M3M India Directors Roop Bansal and Yateesh Wahal, along with 17 advocates representing them, from all allegations of bench hunting and forum shopping. In its detailed 7-page order dated 12 November 2025, issued after an exhaustive inquiry, the Committee has categorically concluded that No mala fide intent existed on the part of any advocate or litigant.
It further mentioned No credible evidence of any coordinated attempt to secure a favourable bench was found. “All withdrawals, re-filings, listings and objections were routine, bona fide and consistent with established legal practice. Media reports making contrary claims were factually incorrect and unsupported by judicial records,” said the order. The Committee scrutinised written submissions, affidavits, WhatsApp conversations, emails and also held multiple interactions including video-conferencing before reaching its conclusion.
It noted the full and voluntary cooperation extended by all concerned. Importantly, the order also clarifies that any restricted listings of advocates before particular benches are confidential, internal matters of the High Court Registry, unknown to advocates or litigants—thereby ruling out the possibility of any deliberate attempt at forum selection. M3M India has welcomed the clean chit, reiterating its commitment to the highest standards of legal compliance and corporate governance. “We have unwavering faith in the judicial process and are grateful to the Privilege Committee for conducting a fair, impartial and comprehensive inquiry.
This order reinforces that we have always acted within the four corners of law. M3M remains committed to transparency, integrity and contributing positively to nation-building through ethical business practices.” — Shrutidhar Paliwal, Vice - President, Corporate Communications, M3M India. The company has urged all stakeholders, including media platforms, to respect the findings of the Bar Council and avoid circulating unverified or misleading reports that undermine public trust in legal institutions.
