The Supreme Court proposed dedicated Ladies’ Bar Rooms across courts, stressing that women advocates must have access to privacy, comfort and basic facilities. The Court observed that meaningful participation of women in the legal profession cannot be ensured without such essential infrastructure.
The Karnataka Government appointed a new panel of law officers to represent the State before the High Court, including 42 Additional Government Advocates and 27 Government Pleaders. The appointments feature significant women representation, with 26 women lawyers selected across both categories.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant revealed that a robust mechanism is being developed to increase women’s representation in the legal profession. Emphasising his commitment, he said, “I am not a person who only make statements,” while highlighting steps including 30% reservation for women in Bar bodies.
The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Union government, all States, and Union Territories on a petition seeking uniform nationwide guidelines to protect women advocates visiting police stations, especially during late evening and night hours, ensuring their safety, dignity, and protection.
The Bar Council of India approached the Supreme Court of India seeking approval for a merit-based co-option process to ensure 30% women representation in state bar councils, proposing selection of unelected women candidates securing the highest votes under a 10% additional quota.
Today, on 16th January, The Supreme Court excluded Punjab and Haryana from its December 8, 2025 directions as only voter lists were finalized, holding that 30% women’s reservation will apply to their upcoming Bar Council elections. The matter was heard by CJI Surya Kant and Justice J Bagchi.
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea questioning the Bombay High Court’s view that the POSH Act does not apply to complaints by women advocates before bar councils. The case could redefine sexual harassment protections for women lawyers across India.
