CJI Chandrachud Calls for Increased Female Representation in Legal Bodies

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has raised concerns regarding the lack of female representation in Bar Councils and Bar Associations across India, emphasizing the need to address the prevailing gender disparity.

Speaking at the centenary celebration of the High Court Bar Association at Nagpur Bench of Bombay High Court, CJI Chandrachud questioned the perpetuation of an "entrenched old boys club" within these legal bodies due to the absence of a conducive environment for the election of women.

"While there are no formal barriers to contesting elections, and the number of women lawyers is increasing, the question that arises is – ‘why are more women not contesting and winning elections to Bar Associations or Bar Councils?’" CJI Chandrachud remarked.

He highlighted the disparity between the rising number of female lawyers and the lack of representation in elected legal bodies, calling attention to the fact that despite the unprecedented increase in female lawyers, this trend is not mirrored in the composition of Bar Councils and Bar Associations.

Moreover, CJI Chandrachud underscored the need for female representation in both the judiciary and the bar, citing the absence of women in significant leadership positions within legal organizations. He noted that there is not a single woman officer bearer in the Bar Council of India, and only one woman member in the Executive Committee of the Supreme Court Bar Association.

Referring to a 2021 report by Bar and Bench, CJI Chandrachud highlighted that only 2.04 percent of the elected representatives across State Bar Councils from 21 states and union territories are women, indicating a pressing need for greater gender inclusivity in legal governance.

In addition to advocating for increased female representation, CJI Chandrachud also addressed the issue of bar association members commenting on pending cases and court judgments, stressing the importance of upholding judicial integrity and independence.

CJI Chandrachud's remarks shed light on the systemic challenges facing women in the legal profession and underscore the imperative for concerted efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in legal governance structures.

Author: Anushka Taraniya

News Writer, MIT ADT University