Supreme Court Mandates Toilets for Women Lawyers in 6 Weeks
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court has directed all states to construct washrooms for women advocates in every court complex within six weeks, rejecting pleas of fund shortage. This addresses a long-standing human rights and health issue that impedes women lawyers from practicing with dignity.
Background
Despite 75 years as a Republic and a decade of Swachh Bharat Mission, many court complexes lack adequate clean washrooms for women, affecting their ability to practice law.
Key facts
Supreme Court bench of CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana issued the directive.
States have a six-week deadline to construct washrooms for women advocates in all court complexes.
Court rejected pleas of fund paucity, suggesting states raise funds by increasing levy on liquor and tobacco products.
SC termed absence of clean washrooms a 'serious human rights and health issue'.
Lack of facilities at taluka-level, district courts, and some high courts impedes women lawyers from practicing.
Court requested Attorney General to give feedback on creation of a dedicated fund within six weeks.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court bench: CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi, V Mohana
- Swachh Bharat Mission
- Article 21: Right to life and dignity
- Article 14: Right to equality
- Human rights issue
Mains angles
- GS2: Judiciary – judicial activism and directives to states
- GS2: Women issues – barriers to women's participation in legal profession
- GS2: Health and human rights – sanitation as a health issue
- GS2: Polity – centre-state relations and fund raising by states