The Madras High Court has recently taken a significant step towards enhancing female representation in legal bodies by appointing two women to the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. On Monday, Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari announced the co-option of retired Justice VM Velumani and advocate Sudarshana Sundar to the council.
This decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s directive issued on August 4, in the case of Yogamaya MG v Union of India, which called for increased representation of women in State Bar Councils. The Supreme Court had empowered the Chief Justices of High Courts to nominate two women members, in consultation with elected council members, to address gender imbalances within these bodies.
Justice Velumani, who previously served on the bench of the Madras High Court before her transfer and subsequent retirement from the Calcutta High Court in April 2024, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Advocate Sudarshana Sundar, another seasoned legal professional, joins her in this endeavor to foster greater diversity and representation within the council.
The High Court’s decision follows a structured process initiated by a letter dated August 21, where the matter was brought before Chief Justice Dharmadhikari in light of the Supreme Court’s instructions. A consultative meeting with elected members was convened on August 24 to finalize the nominations.
Registrar General Deepthi Arivunithi has communicated the appointments and requested the Bar Council Secretary to implement the necessary steps to formalize the induction of the two new members. This move is expected to set a precedent and encourage further initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in legal institutions.
