PIL Leads to SC Directive on Infrastructure for Women Advocates and Creation of Young Lawyers' Fund
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India addressed critical issues concerning the professional environment for women advocates and the financial challenges faced by young lawyers. The judgment was delivered by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice V. Mohana, hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Sarika Tyagi and other petitioners.
The PIL highlighted the lack of adequately equipped Ladies' Bar Rooms and essential facilities in court complexes across the country, which the petitioners argued adversely affect the ability of women advocates to perform their professional duties. The court recognized the direct link between these facilities and the constitutional guarantee of life and dignity under Article 21. The judgment emphasized that creating conducive working conditions for women is essential for their meaningful participation in the legal profession.
Additionally, the court addressed the financial difficulties faced by young lawyers, particularly first-generation advocates and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The judgment proposed the establishment of a 'Young Advocates Corpus Fund' to provide financial support during the initial years of practice. The court suggested that this fund could be financed through contributions from senior advocates, court fees, and costs imposed in judicial proceedings.
The Supreme Court also proposed that beneficiaries of the fund should contribute back to it over time, ensuring its sustainability and supporting future generations of young lawyers. The judgment has been hailed as a significant step towards making the legal profession more inclusive and accessible.
The court issued notices to the Union of India and all states, requesting their cooperation and input on these proposals. The matter is set for further hearing on July 17, 2026.
Bottom Line:
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) addressing the issues of inadequate facilities for women advocates in court complexes and financial challenges faced by young lawyers.
Statutory provision(s): Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
Sarika Tyagi v. Union of India, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2927133
