A series of metal complexes of Cu(II) and Ni(II) having the general composition [M(L)X2] with2,6-diacetyl pyridine bisthiosemicarbazonehas been prepared and characterized by elemental chemical analysis,molar conductance,magnetic susceptibilitymeasurements, andspectral (electronic, IR, EPR, mass) studies. The IR spectral data suggest the involvement of sulphur and azomethane nitrogen incoordination to the central metal ion. On the basis of spectral studies, an octahedral geometry has been assigned for Ni(II) complexesbut a tetragonal geometry for Cu(II) complexes. The free ligand and its metal complexes have been tested in vitro against anumber of microorganisms in order to assess their antimicrobial properties.