"Supreme Court Introduces Handbook to Combat Gender Stereotypes and Enhance Language Sensitivity in Legal Proceedings
In a significant move, the Supreme Court unveiled a comprehensive handbook on Wednesday, aimed at addressing gender stereotypes within the judicial system. This pioneering guide is set to empower judges with the tools to steer clear of inappropriate gender-related terminology in court orders and legal documentation.
The Chief Justice of India (CJI), DY Chandrachud, highlighted the handbook's crucial role in identifying and rectifying the inadvertent use of stereotypes in various court judgments. The intent behind this initiative is to heighten awareness among judges, helping them avoid perpetuating stereotypes through conscious language choices.
CJI Chandrachud underlined that the handbook is not intended to cast doubt on past judgments or the judges who authored them; rather, it serves as a proactive measure to refine future legal language and proceedings. He clarified, "The focus here is on dispelling stereotypes concerning women within the legal discourse. The handbook sheds light on the inadvertent stereotypes employed by courts, aiming to raise judges' consciousness about language patterns that foster such biases. It also underscores pivotal rulings that have addressed these concerns."
Furthermore, the CJI revealed that both an instructional manual and an e-filing tutorial have already been made available on the Supreme Court's official website. The introduction of the handbook is set to follow suit, as part of the Court's ongoing efforts to promote gender neutrality and inclusivity.
Notably, recent strides towards inclusivity within the Supreme Court include CJI Chandrachud's endorsement of gender-neutral restroom facilities and the implementation of online appearance slips. The construction of nine universal, gender-neutral restrooms is in the works, strategically positioned across the main and additional building complexes of the Supreme Court."
TAGS: Supreme Court handbook combat gender stereotypes inappropriate gender terms court orders legal documents Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud stereotypes language judges recognition binding decisions website gender-neutral restrooms online appearance slips.
