Published on: 13 March, 2026 20:11 IST
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Allahabad High Court demanding the introduction of a reservation quota for women advocates in the allotment of chambers within the court premises.
The petition was filed by advocate Jahnavi Singh along with 12 fellow women advocates: Soumya Dwadas Shreni, Gauri Dubey, Vartika Srivastava, Priya Tiwari, Diksha Verma, Mahjaveen Begum, Devina Tripathi, Pooja Mishra, Mamta Maurya, Shivangi Nanda, and Jagrati Nigam.
The matter came up for hearing before a division bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Bhansali and Justice Kshitij Shailendra. The court has directed the counsel representing the High Court Bar Association, Allahabad, and the office of the Registrar General of the High Court to furnish necessary information and details. The next hearing is scheduled for March 30.
In their plea, the petitioners argue that chambers in court premises are not mere conveniences but essential professional infrastructure vital for effective legal practice. They highlight the structural and social barriers women advocates frequently encounter in the profession, including limited access to such facilities despite years of practice.
The petitioners contend that implementing a reasonable percentage of reservation for women in the chamber allotment process is essential to foster a fair, supportive, and dignified working environment for female lawyers.
Advocate Jahnavi Singh appeared for the petitioners. Representing the Registrar General’s office were advocates Ashish Mishra, Ashok Kumar Tiwari, and Sai Giridhar. Senior advocate Rakesh Pandey argued on behalf of the High Court Bar Association.
This PIL underscores ongoing efforts to address gender disparities in the legal profession and infrastructure access at the bar, amid broader national discussions on similar issues in bar associations and courts. The court’s directions indicate it will examine the current allotment policies and the need for affirmative measures.