Supreme Court Questions Need for Gender-Based Preference in Chamber Allotment for Women Lawyers

The Supreme Court issued notice on a plea seeking a uniform, gender-sensitive policy for allotting professional chambers to women advocates across courts and bar associations.

The petition sought reservation or priority allotment for women lawyers, including those with over 25 years of practice on the SCBA waiting list.

During the hearing, Justice Surya Kant questioned the necessity of special preference, noting that nearly 60% of judicial officers are women selected on merit without reservation.

The Bench suggested focusing on infrastructural facilities like court-annexed crèches. Notice was issued to the Union, Supreme Court Secretary General, SCBA, and BCI for their response.

[Bhakti Pasrija & Ors. v UOI & Ors.]