Supreme Court's New Tribunals: Enhancing Election Oversight

The Supreme Court has directed the formation of two election tribunals, led by Justices Deepak Gupta and Hima Kohli, to handle state bar council election disputes. This decision aims to address emerging litigation issues and ensure a 30% representation for women, utilizing a 'co-option' mechanism for under-represented female candidates.

The Supreme Court has moved to address increasing litigation surrounding state bar council elections by establishing two election tribunals. Former Justices Deepak Gupta and Hima Kohli will lead these efforts, as directed by a bench including Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi.

This initiative entrusts the Bar Council of India (BCI) with obtaining formal consent from the former judges to effectively manage disputes related to bar polls across the states. The court's directive arises from growing concerns regarding election conduct and aims to uphold electoral integrity.

Additionally, the issue of ensuring 30% female representation in state bar councils was highlighted. A 'co-option' mechanism was discussed to address situations where insufficient women are elected. The bench previously empowered a supervisory committee to prevent misuse in the implementation of this representation mandate.