Former Justice Katju Responds to ‘Anti-Female’ Claims, Highlights Pioneering Work for Women in Judiciary – Breaking News
In a surprising turn of events, former Allahabad and Madras High Court Chief Justice Markandey Katju has vehemently defended his record on women’s rights, responding to recent criticism that he was “anti-female.” The response, delivered in a detailed online post, details decades of proactive measures taken to improve conditions for women lawyers and working mothers within the Indian judicial system. This breaking news story is rapidly gaining traction, prompting debate and a re-evaluation of Katju’s legacy. For those following Google News trends, this is a developing story with significant implications for discussions around gender equality in India’s legal profession.
Addressing the Accusations & Championing Women’s Empowerment
Katju directly addressed the misconception, referencing his article “Empowerment of Women,” where he outlined the centuries-long oppression faced by women and advocated for fundamental social change. He passionately described Indian women as “real heroes,” acknowledging their tireless contributions to family life often without recognition. He specifically highlighted the “double burden” experienced by professional women – balancing demanding careers (like doctors, lawyers, and teachers) with traditional domestic responsibilities such as cooking, laundry, and childcare. This resonates deeply with ongoing conversations about work-life balance and gender roles in modern India.
A History of Concrete Action: Improving Conditions for Women Lawyers
Katju’s post wasn’t simply a rebuttal; it was a detailed account of tangible improvements he initiated during his judicial tenure. In 1991, while serving as Acting Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court, he confronted a stark reality: the court lacked even basic facilities for women lawyers. He recounted the necessity for female lawyers to use facilities outside the court premises, even lacking access to a toilet. Responding decisively, he ordered the construction of the Cornellia Sorabji Hall – named after India’s first female lawyer – providing dedicated toilets, a canteen, and comfortable seating specifically for women. This was a landmark achievement at the time, demonstrating a clear commitment to creating a more equitable workplace.
The First Court Crèche: Supporting Working Mothers
Katju’s commitment extended beyond lawyers. In 2004, as Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, he recognized the challenges faced by young married women lawyers and court registry employees with young children. In a truly pioneering move, he allocated space within the court building to establish a crèche – the first of its kind in any Indian High Court, and reportedly still the only one. With the assistance of lawyer Mohan Parasaran, the crèche was equipped with toys and staffed by two dedicated caregivers, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children. This initiative allowed working mothers to fulfill their professional obligations without compromising their parental responsibilities. This proactive approach to childcare is a model for other institutions seeking to support working parents.
A Plea for Decency and a Question of Legacy
Katju concluded his post with a poignant question: did he truly deserve the “condemnation, criticism, humiliation, disgrace and ridicule” he had received? He urged his critics to demonstrate “decency” and offer an apology, mirroring his own willingness to do so. The response has sparked a flurry of reactions online, with some praising his past actions and others suggesting that recent statements have overshadowed his earlier achievements. This debate underscores the importance of context and nuance when evaluating public figures and their contributions.
The story of Justice Katju’s efforts serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for advocacy and concrete action to promote gender equality within the Indian legal system and beyond. His initiatives, particularly the establishment of the court crèche, represent a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the workplace. Stay tuned to Archyde.com for further updates on this developing story and in-depth analysis of the broader implications for women’s rights in India. Explore our Legal News section for more coverage of important judicial developments and Gender Equality issues.