CJI Surya Kant Calls for Reforms to Boost Gender Equality in Legal Profession

Bengaluru, India – Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Saturday called for structural reforms to ensure gender equality in the legal profession becomes a lived reality rather than a mere constitutional promise, highlighting persistent barriers that hinder women's advancement.

Speaking at the National Conference 2026 on Reimagining Judicial Governance: Strengthening Institutions for Democratic Justice, organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association on the outskirts of Bengaluru, Justice Kant emphasized the need for systemic support to retain women lawyers. The two-day event drew judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts, along with legal professionals, to discuss inclusive practices in the judiciary.

Justice Kant referenced a recent survey conducted by women lawyers, which he described as a "remarkable and scientific" document that serves as an "eye opener" and a practical roadmap for addressing challenges. "I personally believe that when we talk of equality within our constitutional framework, this equality is not merely on paper. So equality has to be translated into lived experiences," he said. The survey identifies issues such as irregular working hours, lack of...