Ranchi: In a landmark move to ensure women’s participation in state bar councils across India, the Bar Council of India (BCI) has directed all councils to reserve 30 percent of seats for women. The directive, issued through letter number 9365/2025, aligns with recent Supreme Court guidelines and will be implemented immediately in all states, including Jharkhand.
Under the new guidelines, the women’s quota is divided into two categories: 20 percent of council seats will be filled through election of female candidates, while 10 percent will be filled through nomination. BCI has further clarified that if sufficient female candidates do not win in elections, the remaining seats will be filled through co-option to meet the 30 percent requirement.
For instance, in a 25-member council, seven seats will be reserved for women; in a 20-member council, six seats; and in a 15-member council, four seats. Jharkhand State Bar Council elections scheduled next year will follow this new arrangement, benefiting female lawyers in the state.
The state’s secretary in charge has circulated the BCI letter to all members, and upcoming election notifications will be issued under these new rules. Women lawyers believe this step will strengthen their role in policy-making within bar councils and promote inclusivity in judicial processes.