Hello Friends, In a world where gender equality is still a work in progress, Justice BV Nagarathna of the Supreme Court has made a powerful statement at least 30% of government law officers should be women. Her words, spoken at a seminar titled “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women Who Made It,” serve as a call to action for greater female representation in the legal profession and beyond.
A Vision for Gender Diversity in Law
Justice BV Nagarathna highlighted that the legal field, despite its progress, still struggles with gender imbalance at higher levels. While women make up a significant percentage of law school graduates and junior lawyers, they often find their career growth hindered by systemic discrimination. To address this, she emphasized the need for policy-driven change. She advocated for a 30% representation of women not just in government law offices, but also in public sector legal advisory roles, state instrumentalities, and agencies. “If male advocates can be appointed to High Courts before the age of 45, why not competent women?” she questioned, challenging outdated norms. Her message was clear: it’s time to open doors for women and ensure they are given the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
Education, Mentorship And Policy Changes
Justice BV Nagarathna stressed that gender diversity must begin at the foundational level education. “When girls are educated, they are empowered to dream big, to pursue their passions, and to achieve their full potential,” she said. She called for greater access to quality education for girls, regardless of their social or economic background. She also highlighted the importance of mentorship. Women need mentors to guide them, provide valuable career advice, and open pathways to leadership roles. Creating a culture where women mentor and support each other can help break the cycle of gender-based exclusion.
Challenging Stereotypes Inclusivity vs. Meritocracy
One of the most thought-provoking aspects of her speech was her take on inclusivity. She addressed the common misconception that gender-based reservations compromise merit. “Encouraging inclusivity does not mean ignoring merit,” she said. Instead, it challenges deep-rooted biases that have historically kept women from rising to the top. She pointed to the Companies Act, 2013, which mandated increased representation of women on corporate boards. Within a year of its implementation, the percentage of women in leadership roles doubled. This, she argued, is proof that when given the opportunity, women excel in leadership positions.
Women in Politics A Long Road Ahead
Justice BV Nagarathna also spoke about the glaring gender gap in Indian politics. Despite the passing of a Constitutional amendment for 33% women’s reservation in Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies, its implementation has been delayed. Currently, women hold only 14% of Lok Sabha seats and 15% in Rajya Sabha, with ministerial positions being even fewer. However, she pointed to the success of women’s reservation at the Panchayat level, where 1.4 million women have been elected. This proves that when given the opportunity, women leaders can bring about real change in governance.
The Judiciary Must Lead by Example
As a Supreme Court judge, Justice BV Nagarathna understands the power of the judiciary in shaping societal norms. She urged the judicial system to be free from gender biases and more sensitive while handling women’s issues. “A diverse bench leads to more balanced adjudication,” she noted. More women on the bench means a greater variety of life experiences shaping legal decisions, ultimately leading to fairer judgments. She also spoke about the importance of celebrating women who have shattered barriers in law trailblazers like Cornelia Sorabji (India’s first woman lawyer), Justice Anna Chandy (India’s first woman judge), and Justice M. Fathima Beevi (India’s first Supreme Court woman judge). Their achievements should not be forgotten, but instead, should inspire future generations.
Recognizing the “Unsung Women”
Beyond professional achievements, Justice BV Nagarathna emphasized the importance of acknowledging the silent contributions of women in everyday life. From ASHA workers to homemakers, women play a crucial role in holding families and communities together. Their leadership, intelligence, and sacrifices often go unnoticed, but they are the foundation upon which society stands.
A Call to Action for a More Inclusive Future
Justice BV Nagarathna message was not just about legal reforms it was about societal transformation. Her words serve as a reminder that gender equality isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a collective responsibility. From classrooms to courtrooms, from boardrooms to political offices, women deserve a seat at the table not as a token presence, but as equal contributors. The glass ceiling won’t break on its own. It takes courage, policies, and the collective will of society to ensure that women get the opportunities they rightfully deserve. The journey to equality is long, but as Justice BV Nagarathna so powerfully reminded us, every step counts.
Disclaimer: This article is based on Justice BV Nagarathna views expressed during a seminar and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not represent any legal advice or official government policy.
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