Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has urged high court collegiums to consider meritorious female lawyers for judgeship as a norm, not an exception. He emphasized the need for institutional reforms to bring more women into the legal field and promote fairness in the judiciary.
CJI Kant highlighted the progress made in the district judiciary, where women comprise approximately 36.3% of the working strength of judicial officers. He noted that this development indicates a generational shift and a widening pipeline of women in the legal profession.
The CJI also praised the journey of women in the legal field, citing the significant distance traveled since the colonial era when women were not permitted to practice law. He emphasized that women bring distinct insights shaped by their experiences in homes, workplaces, and everyday realities, which deepens the court's engagement with society.
CJI Kant urged the high court collegiums to widen their consideration and include women advocates from their states who are practicing in the Supreme Court for elevation. He emphasized that reform is a continuous process and requires persistence beyond individual tenures and personalities.
