The Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association has condemned retired Justice Markandey Katju’s “winking” remark, calling it sexist and demeaning. The association has demanded an unconditional public apology, stressing such comments harm the dignity of women in law.
New Delhi: On August 22, the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association (SCWLA) strongly criticized the recent comments made by retired Supreme Court judge, Justice Markandey Katju. His remarks, suggesting that women lawyers could manage to get favourable court orders by “winking” at judges, have been described as deeply insulting and harmful for the legal profession.
The association said that such words are not only “misogynistic” but also an attack on the
“dignity, credibility, competence, integrity and professional standing of every woman in the legal fraternity.”
SCWLA has demanded that the former judge must issue an “unconditional public apology” for his statement.
In its press release, the association expressed disappointment that such views came from a former judge of the Supreme Court.
It said:
“It is deeply disturbing that a former judge of the Supreme Court, who once entrusted with the responsibility of upholding constitutional values, would trivialize the hard work and merit of women lawyers through casual sexism. His words not only demean women advocates but also erode public confidence in the impartiality of the justice system and perpetuate harmful stereotypes that have no place in a democratic society. Coming from a former Judge of the Supreme Court, they are particularly shocking and unbecoming of the dignity associated with constitutional office.”
SCWLA further appealed to women lawyers across the country to remain strong and not lose confidence because of such offensive remarks.
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“Let these remarks never shake your confidence. We will not be silenced, demeaned or reduced to caricatures. Our worth is defined by our intellect, integrity and commitment to justice and not by outdated sexist notions. The Association stands firmly by its commitment to equality, respect and justice for ourselves, for the legal profession and for the society at large, today and always.”
The association reminded everyone connected with the justice system that every word spoken by legal professionals carries weight, especially those who have once held constitutional office.
“Words carry immense power and those who have held constitutional office bear a continuing responsibility to uphold the dignity of the judiciary and advance the cause of equality.”
The statement has sparked widespread debate in legal and social circles. Many lawyers and activists have supported SCWLA’s stand, saying that remarks like these undermine the respect and credibility women professionals deserve.
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