High Representation Of Women In Legal Field In Kerala Reflects Gender Parity, Sets Example For Other States: Chief Justice AJ Desai Retires

He recollected an enrolment function held last year where female law graduates outnumbered the male law graduates.

“It is heartening to know that Kerala's progressive approach towards the gender equality combined with its strong educational foundation and supportive policies has contributed to a higher representation of women in legal education and legal profession including the judicial services. The trend not only reflect societal advancement in Kerala but also set an example for other states in India in promoting gender parity in professional fields,” he said.

He went on to state that Kerala has been widely recognized for its impressive development in education, health and social security measures over the years, setting a benchmark for other states in India.

In his early days, CJ Desai studied in various districts in Gujarat due to frequent transfer of his father as a District judge. He said this enabled him to experience and know the difficulties of judicial officers, their family members and staff. "I have no hesitation to say that the District Judiciary in Kerala is one among the best District Judiciary in India...judicial officers in Kerala are very dedicated and committed to rule of law," he said.

After graduating in the year 1985, CJ Desai practiced in Gujarat until his elevation to the Gujarat High Court in November 2011. He was transferred to the Kerala High Court in the capacity as the Acting Chief Justice in February 2023. He was the Patron in Chief of Kerala State Legal Services Authority (KeLSA), Kerala Judicial Academy and also the President of Indian Law Institute Kerala State Union.

Advocate General Gopalakrishna Kurup and President of the Kerala High Court Advocate's Association Advocate Yeshwanth Shenoy represented the Bar during the event.

In his speech, CJ Desai emphasized on the importance of nurturing a healthy relationship between the Bench and the Bar for upholding principles of justice and rule of law. He went on to state that judges and lawyers must remember that they are building a monument in the temple of justice. He stated that judiciary is the last hope for a common man who seeks justice.

He then spoke about his experience of working as a judge in Kerala. He said the Kerala High Court is in the forefront for adopting new trends in the field of information and communication technology in the justice delivery system. He also expressed that the lawyers in Kerala are known for their fearlessness to put forth their opinions, fairness, uprightness, reasonableness and they have also maintained the decorum and dignity of Court.

Justice Desai took charge as the Kerala High Court Chief Justice on July 22, 2023. Justice A Muhamed Mustaque will serve as the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court from tomorrow.