Supreme Court Warns Bar Associations of Suspension over Failure to Meet 30% Women’s Quota

The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to bar associations nationwide to implement 30% reservation for women in their governing bodies or face judicial suspension and fresh elections.

The Bench emphasized that non-compliance will not be tolerated. The Court directed Registrars General of all High Courts to identify non-compliant or reluctant bodies.

Modifying the fallback mechanism, stating that if enough women do not contest, nominations to meet the quota will be made by High Court portfolio judges in consultation with stakeholders.

The move aims to ensure uniform representation of women lawyers at all levels, including district and taluka bar bodies.

[Deeksha K Amrutesh v. State of Karnataka]