Karnataka High Court Rejects Plea for 33% Women’s Reservation in Advocates Association Elections

The Karnataka High Court dismissed petitions seeking 33% reservation for women in the Advocates Association, Bengaluru (AAB) governing body, citing its inability to intervene in elections once the process and final voters’ list were underway. 

Justice R. Devdas noted the absence of such provisions in AAB’s by-laws and advised petitioners to approach the Supreme Court, which has powers under Article 142.

AAB assured post-election consideration for amending by-laws. Petitioners argued this delay would defer relief for three years. The Court refused postponement, citing SCBA v. BD Kaushik, and upheld February 2, 2025, as the election date.