The Supreme Court on Friday indicated continuation of reservation for women candidates in certain posts of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), with the Chief Justice of India emphasising the need for greater inclusivity in bar leadership.
A Bench comprising the Chief Justice of India and Justice K.V. Viswanathan was hearing interlocutory applications concerning reservation of posts for women members in the SCBA ahead of the upcoming elections.
During the hearing, applicants sought modification and expansion of the earlier directions reserving posts for women lawyers. One of the counsel submitted that the post of Secretary was particularly important for younger lawyers and requested that it also be considered for reservation.
The Chief Justice observed that after the earlier order, consultations had been undertaken regarding practices followed in various High Courts and Bar Associations across the country. The Bench was informed that several bar associations already have multiple Vice-President posts to broaden representation.
The CJI remarked that the strength of bar associations had substantially increased over time and indicated that the existing arrangement for the 2026–27 term would continue. The Court also reserved the post of Secretary for women candidates.
Additionally, the Bench permitted the General Body Meeting (GBM) of the SCBA to consider creation of a second Vice-President post, which could also be reserved for women lawyers in future.
The Court emphasised the importance of discussions within the General Body of the SCBA and stated that members should have the opportunity to express their views on structural reforms concerning office-bearer posts and representation.
During the hearing, senior members of the Bar referred to instances where women office-bearers had previously been elected in open-category contests and supported greater participation of women lawyers in bar administration.
The Bench indicated that a detailed order on the issue may be passed after further deliberations.