Bar Council of England & Wales Delegation Visits UILS, Panjab University

Chandigarh, October 16, 2025: The University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS), Panjab University, today hosted a distinguished delegation from the Bar Council of England & Wales for an insightful and inspiring conference titled “A Lawyer’s Journey: Challenges and Opportunities with the Bar of England & Wales”.
 
The function featured an eminent panel of legal professionals from the United Kingdom who shared their experiences, perspectives, and reflections on evolving professional pathways in law, the changing landscape of advocacy, and the importance of diversity and inclusion at the Bar.

The visiting delegation comprised Barbara Mills KC, King’s Counsel, Chair of the Bar Council of England & Wales, Deputy High Court Judge, and Head of Chambers at 4PB, London; Piran Dhillon-Starkings, Adviser to the Chair of the Bar; Baljinder Bath, Barrister at 4PB, London; and Melisha Charles, International Policy and Programme Officer at the Bar Council of England & Wales.

The session was presided over by Prof. Yojna Rawat, Dean, University Instruction, Panjab University, and opened with a welcome address by Prof. Shruti Bedi, Director, UILS, who highlighted the significance of the visit as a bridge between two legal traditions committed to justice, professionalism, and equality.

In a deeply engaging interaction, Barbara Mills KC reflected on her journey at the Bar, the evolving role of lawyers in family law, and the continuing efforts to build an inclusive profession that represents all sections of society. 

Dhillon-Starkings, Bath, and Charles offered valuable insights into leadership, advocacy, international opportunities for young lawyers, and the importance of well-being and mentorship in legal careers.

The speakers candidly addressed the challenges faced by practitioners from diverse backgrounds and the progress achieved through collective commitment to equality and representation. Their reflections resonated strongly with students, encouraging them to embrace global perspectives while remaining grounded in integrity and service.

The event concluded with an interactive session where students of UILS engaged enthusiastically with the delegation, discussing pathways for international legal education, cross-border practice, and professional ethics. Mr. Suvir Sidhu, Member, Bar Council of India, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the visit, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the delegation for their enriching engagement and goodwill towards UILS.