The Karnataka High Court has taken a significant step towards enhancing gender representation within the legal profession by appointing two women advocates as co-opted members of the Karnataka State Bar Council (KSBC). This decision was made by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru, following discussions with the elected members of the State Bar Council.
Senior Advocate S. Susheela and Advocate Vijayamma V. have been selected for this distinguished role, with the official announcement made through a communication by High Court Registrar General M. Chandrashekar Reddy on September 10. This development comes on the heels of the Supreme Court’s directive dated August 4, which was issued in the case of Yogamaya MG v. Union of India. The directive empowers the Chief Justices of High Courts to nominate two women advocates to their respective State Bar Councils.
The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the necessity of addressing the underrepresentation of women in legal governance bodies. The framework set by the Supreme Court ensures that women can be co-opted into the State Bar Councils, provided there is consultation with the elected members of the respective councils.
In related news, the Karnataka State Bar Council is preparing for upcoming elections for key positions. The election for the posts of KSBC Chairman and Vice Chairman is slated for October 1, with the deadline for filing nominations set for September 22. Among the candidates, advocates N. Devaraj and Rajanna have staked their claim for the position of Chairman, while advocates Shivamurthy and Shylaja K. are in the running for Vice Chairman.
Additionally, advocates C.M. Dhananjaya and Shiva Kumar N. have submitted their nominations for the Bar Council of India nominee post from Karnataka. The electoral body responsible for these elections will include the Advocate General of Karnataka, the two co-opted women members, and 23 elected members of the KSBC.
This initiative not only aligns with efforts to promote gender equality in the legal field but also reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity within professional legal bodies across India.
