The principle of gender equality is enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The
Constitution not only grants equality to women, but also empowers the State to adopt
measures of positive discrimination in favour of women. This positive step in direction of
achieving gender equality needs to be implemented in the field of Practice of Law. The
number of women in legal profession has increased phenomenally for the last two decades.
Many Lady Advocates are doing extremely well in the profession while balancing demands
from family. IN such scenario it is important that representation for women in all fields of
law has to be adequate and respectable. The 16th National Conference of Akhil Bharatiya
Adhivakta Parishad held at Kurukshetra on 26 to 28 of December 2022 demands to the
Authorities for adequate representation for women in Bar Councils and Government
panels.
The membership of women Advocates has increased considerably over the last 10
years and ABAP feels that a provision shall have to be made for reserving some posts in
Bar Councils of States and Bar Council of India. This shall be done immediately by
amending the Advocates Act and relevant rules and regulations.
There is need to see that proper atmosphere is created which will enable women
advocates to sustain themselves respectfully in the cut throat legal profession. It is noticed
that unless such steps are taken it will be difficult for women advocates to sustain in the
profession at crucial phases. Hence ABAP demands to the State, Central Governments and
public bodies include a clause in their Rules governing appointments of advocates as
standing counsel to the effect that “every endeavour shall be made to see that adequate,
respectful number of women Lawyers are engaged by the Corporations Governments and
its departments”.
