Today, On 19th December, The Supreme Court considered a plea seeking 33% reservation for women in Gujarat’s bar associations. Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, heard the matter, issued a notice on the petition. Emphasizing the importance of gender inclusivity in legal organizations, the case is set for a hearing in January 2025.
New Delhi: A petition has been submitted to the Supreme Court requesting a 33% reservation for women in bar associations Gujarat.
A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan issued a notice regarding the plea and scheduled the case for a hearing in January 2025.
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During the hearing on December 17, the Court questioned why advocate Meena Jagtap had chosen to engage a male lawyer to represent her case and had requested her presence.
In today’s proceedings, advocate Jagtap openly discussed her difficulties, including her limited English proficiency and lack of experience in higher courts. She also highlighted her obligations as the head of an NGO supporting destitute individuals.
Female Advocate argued,
“I was not a member of the SCBA, and my English isn’t very fluent.”
Justice Surya Kant replied to her,
“That’s not necessary. Do you appear in various courts across Gujarat?”
Advocate responeded,
“Primarily in lower courts and family courts.”
To which Court asked,
“And the High Court?”
Advocate replied,
“The last time was for a quashing petition.”
The Court expressed admiration for the various roles women manage, stating,
“We feel proud as women in our country shoulder so many responsibilities like homemaker, teacher, lawyers, and so much more. Why don’t you appear more in the High Court? You must. Anyway, you can approach the High Court as well.”
Jagtap noted that her previous request to the High Court had not been successful due to the low number of women bar members.
Acknowledging her concerns, the Supreme Court decided to issue a notice and scheduled the matter for hearing in the third or fourth week of January 2025.
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