Addressing Gender Imbalance in India's Higher Judiciary via AIJS
Women's representation in India's higher judiciary remains low, with only 14% in High Courts and 3.1% in the Supreme Court. The article attributes this to the 'elitist' Collegium system and suggests an All-India Judicial Service (AIJS) as a solution. AIJS, conducted by UPSC under Article 312, would ensure merit-based, transparent recruitment, similar to IAS/IPS. While the lower judiciary has better representation (38%) due to competitive exams, the higher judiciary needs structural reforms to ensure diversity and inclusivity, potentially overseen by the Supreme Court.
Key Points
- The Collegium system is cited as a primary reason for gender disparity in higher courts.
- Article 312 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to create an All-India Judicial Service.
- Lower courts have higher women representation (38%) because they use competitive entrance exams.
Exam Facts
- Statistics: 14% women in High Courts; 3.1% in the Supreme Court.
- Constitutional Provision: Article 312 for All-India Services.
- Current Status: Only one woman judge currently serves in the 34-judge Supreme Court.
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