Transforming the Indian Judiciary: A New Era of Gender Balance
In a recent interview, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud emphasized a significant transformation within the Indian judicial system. He asserted that the judiciary is shedding its past identity dominated by “elite male Hindu, upper caste men” and is embracing a more inclusive future.
Women in the Judiciary: A Growing Presence
Chandrachud highlighted a remarkable trend in the recruitment of new judges, particularly at the district level. “Over 50% of the new recruits coming into our states are women,” he noted, with certain states reporting female recruitment rates as high as 60% to 70%. This shift indicates a promising future where women will play a pivotal role in the judiciary.
Reflecting on the Past
Addressing the current composition of the higher judiciary, Chandrachud explained that it reflects the legal profession’s status from two decades ago. “The higher judiciary today is reflective of the status of the legal profession about 20 years ago,” he stated, emphasizing the slow but steady progress towards gender equality in the legal sphere.
Education and Opportunity
The former CJI attributed this change to the increased access to legal education for women, which is now mirrored in the lower echelons of the judiciary. “As the reach of education has expanded, that gender balance seen in law schools is now reflected in the Indian judiciary,” he explained.
A Bright Future Ahead
Chandrachud’s observations suggest that the influx of women into the district judiciary will eventually lead to greater representation at higher judicial levels. This transformation is not just a trend; it signals a new era for the Indian judiciary, one that is more reflective of society’s diversity.
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