Recently, the Supreme Court addressed a plea seeking 33% reservation for women in bar associations across Gujarat. The Court, comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, issued a notice on the plea and scheduled the matter for a hearing in January 2025. In a noteworthy observation, the Court questioned why advocate Meena Jagtap, who filed the petition had engaged a male lawyer to argue her case and requested her own presence during the proceedings.
The plea seeks the implementation of a 33% reservation for women in bar associations in Gujarat. Advocate Meena Jagtap, who is also the head of an NGO working for destitute individuals, appeared in the matter. During the hearing, advocate Jagtap candidly shared her challenges, including her limited proficiency in English and lack of experience in higher Courts. Despite these challenges, she highlighted her significant commitments outside her legal practice, including leading an NGO.
Advocate Meena Jagtap explained that her request for a more active presence in the legal community had been hindered due to her limited experience in higher courts and her struggle with language barriers. She emphasised her dual responsibilities as a professional and the head of an NGO, which further complicated her ability to engage in the High Court regularly. She also pointed out that her previous request to the High Court for support had been unsuccessful due to the low number of women members in the bar.
The Apex Court after hearing the contentions, expressed appreciation for the multiple roles women undertake in society, often balancing responsibilities as homemakers, teachers, and professionals. The Court acknowledged the challenges women face, especially in the legal field, and lauded Jagtap's efforts in managing her responsibilities. In a significant observation, the Court remarked, “We feel proud as women in our country shoulder so many responsibilities… like homemaker, teacher, lawyers, and so much more. Why don't you appear more in the High Court? You must. Anyways, you can approach the High Court as well”.
The Court's remarks reflected a broader recognition of the need for greater support and opportunities for women in the legal profession. It emphasised the importance of women engaging more actively in higher courts despite the challenges they face.
Acknowledging the concerns raised by advocate Meena Jagtap, the Court decided to issue a notice and has scheduled the matter for further hearing in the third or fourth week of January 2025. The Court's decision underscores its commitment to addressing the issue of gender representation in the legal profession and ensuring that women have equal opportunities to participate in bar associations across Gujarat.
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