The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, in strong words has condemned any kind of sexual harassment, and inappropriate behaviour towards women.
While speaking at an event organized by the Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee of the Supreme Court for a belated celebration of International Women’s Day, the CJI disapproved also of any kind of indecorous language targeting women such as inappropriate comments, sexist jokes, etc.
He also revealed some strong steps that the judiciary plans to take in order to ensure 'zero tolerance'. He announced two important plans – first, the launch of a glossary of inappropriate gendered terms used in legal discourse, and second, the creation of a large space for women lawyers in the Supreme Court’s annexe building which is about to be renovated.
CJI Chandrachud who delivered the keynote address as the Chief Guest, highlighted both good and promising developments in the legal profession, from the increasing number of women in judicial services and transactional law, as well as unpleasant aspects that need to be addressed, including the presence of systemic barriers, and incidents of inappropriate behaviour, sexual and otherwise, targeting women.
Revealing that he had heard ‘ghastly’ stories involving young, women lawyers in the profession arising out of the corridors of the top court itself, the CJI regarded 'harassment of women and inappropriate behaviour towards them' as the biggest issue of the noble legal profession.
However, he expressed hope in terms of 'gender diversity' as he hailed the increasing number of women in district judiciary and transactional law.
“This holds great promise for the future because these women who are entering into the workspace today are going to define the values, the traditions, and the aspirations for the present and the future.” he said.
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