More Than 50% Women Representation In Judiciary Demanded In View Of Backlog; Will Take Up This With Collegium: CJI Ramana[Video]

Speaking at Justice Hima Kohli's felicitation ceremony organised by 'Women In Law & Litigation', the Chief Justice of India NV Ramana reiterated his commitment to the cause of higher representation of women in the judiciary. He said that he will take up with the members of the Collegium the need for 50% representation of women.

"The demand for higher representation beyond 50% on the Bench in view of backlog of under-representation of women is taken note of. I promise to take up your demand with my Brothers in the collegium", the CJI said.

It may be recalled that at an earlier occasion, the CJI had said that women have the right to demand at least 50% representation in the judiciary. During that event, the CJI had modified a famous quote of Karl Marx to say "women of the world have nothing to lose but their chains".

Yesterday, he said in a lighter vein that after this comment based on Karl Marx quote, someone made a complaint accusing CJI of instigating revolution.

"The modified Karl Marx quote i.e., "nothing to lose but your chains" that I used when I addressed you last time led to a complaint being lodged with the highest authority. I was accused of instigating revolution", CJI said with a smile.

He also stated that it is the duty of all lawyers and Judges to ensure that a friendly environment is created in Courtrooms for women. 

While addressing the barriers that women face in the legal profession that merit consideration, CJI stated that the bias that women face, whether from their colleagues or litigants not just women advocates, but also those on the Bench and this creates a completely unwelcome atmosphere within Courtrooms for women.

The CJI pointed out that the continued prevalence of certain attitudes about the role of women in society is another issue that a woman faces regardless of the type of employment.

CJI added that Judicial infrastructure, or the lack thereof, is another barrier to women in the profession. Small courtrooms which are crowded and cramped, absence of restrooms, childcare facilities, etc. are all barriers. Nearly 22% of Courts in the country did not have washroom facilities.

CJI stated that while these issues aren't possible to be solved in one day, he is trying and highlighting these issues on every forum wherever he gets the opportunity and bringing it to the notice of the Government. He expressed hope that the Government will realise and support and take care of all these issues.

CJI also pointed out that at times what Judges and Lawyers speak may be taken out of context.

CJI added that "Recently we were hearing a very sensitive case and Justice Hima Kohli made an observation 'you're dragging your feet'. The next day on all newspapers and channels it was made a banner. She was a little scared and asked the next day if she committed a mistake."

"I said you are entitled to express your views. English can be twisted any way you like. The media or some channels will pick up sentences and here and there they may give, which are attractive and juicy. Once you are in public life, it is all a part. You need not worry and go ahead. It's what I advised. So I don't take it very seriously, it is all a part of life," CJI said.

CJI also advocated for young children to be taught their mother language, as it will make them more confident and help them communicate properly.

"One good thing is that I am a voracious reader and I have learnt Telugu language which is my mother language. I read all kinds old books and that made a strong basis for me even though I started my English in 8th class," CJI said.

CJI further added, "I advise all mothers to teach the children their mother tongue. Your child is confident, will communicate properly. The thought process is important, that will be in mother tongue only. Fundamentals of mother tongue and language are very important. Mother tongue is important and I advocate strongly."

Supreme Court judges Justices Indira Banerjee and Hima Kohil, Delhi High Court judges Justices Rekha Palli, Prathibha M Singh, Senior Advocates Maninder Acharya and Rebecca M John spoke at the function.

Video of the event :