Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.

Chief Justice of India remarked on the quite low representation of women at all levels in the legal field and promised that he would take up the demand for their higher representation beyond 50% on the bench with his colleagues.

Status of representation of Women in Higher Judiciary: 

1). There has never been a woman Chief Justice of India. 

2). Of the 256 Supreme Court judges appointed in the past 71 years, only 11 (or 4.2%) have been women. 

Desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary:

1. By their mere presence, women judges enhance the legitimacy of courts, sending a powerful signal that they are open and accessible to those who seek recourse to justice.

2. It will ensure diversity of perspectives is fairly considered. E.g.: more balanced and empathetic approach in cases involving sexual violence. It will instil greater public trust in the judiciary. 

3. Improvements in women’s representation in the judiciary remain intrinsic to the constitutional ideals of gender equality and social justice.

4. Women's increased participation in higher courts will help to combat gender stereotypes and pave the way for greater representation of women in other decision-making positions, such as in the legislative and executive branches of government. 

5. Changing the long-established demographics of a court can make the institution more amenable to consider itself in a new light, and potentially lead to further modernization and reform.

Achieving equality for women judges, in terms of representation at all levels of the judiciary and on policy- making judicial councils, should be our goal- not only because it is right for women, but also because it is right for the achievement of a more just rule of law. Women judges are strengthening the judiciary by upholding women's, child and environmental rights.