In a move to boost gender representation, SC directs reservation of key posts for women in Gujarat HC and district-level Bar bodies.
In a landmark move towards gender inclusivity in the legal profession, the Supreme Court on Monday directed that the Treasurer’s post and 30% of Executive Committee (EC) seats in the Gujarat High Court and District Bar Associations be reserved for women lawyers.
A bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh passed the order while hearing a writ petition seeking increased female representation in legal associations. Referring to earlier directives issued to the Supreme Court Bar Association, Delhi High Court Bar Association, and Advocates’ Association Bengaluru, the Court observed that a uniform approach must be adopted nationwide to elevate women in legal leadership roles.
“There is no reason to deviate from the precedent set in other Bar bodies,” the bench remarked.
The directive comes as part of ongoing efforts to reform professional legal bodies and address the persistent underrepresentation of women across state bar associations. The petition, filed by Advocate Meena A. Jagtap, also sought reservation in the Bar Council of Gujarat, but the Court said this issue—along with representation in all State Bar Councils and the Bar Council of India—would be taken up later in a more expansive review.
For previous hearings and legal context behind this ruling, readers can explore our legal insights section.
This step is expected to have a significant impact on Bar associations across Gujarat, particularly at the district level, where female representation in executive roles remains disproportionately low.
“This is a step forward for gender justice and equal opportunity within legal institutions,” a senior advocate commented during the hearing.
The judgment builds upon a growing judicial trend to institutionalise equality in the profession, aligning with recent rulings advocating structural reforms. For more updates on legal reforms and women in law, visit our videos section or get guidance through our legal helpline.
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Case Snapshot
Case Title: Meena A. Jagtap v. Bar Council of India
W.P.(C) No. 819/2024
Bench: Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh
Order Date: May 2025
In House Development | The Legal Observer
