Over 100 advocates in Karnataka have urged the Karnataka State Bar Council (KSBC) to ensure that law graduates wearing the hijab are not asked to remove it during their enrolment as advocates.
In a representation dated 17 March, 124 advocates called on the KSBC to take action after a recent case where a Muslim law graduate was told to remove her hijab during the enrolment process.
The incident reportedly took place on 7 March at the Karnataka High Court. The candidate was instructed to take off her hijab during the interview, part of the enrolment procedure. Other women were only asked to tie their hair back or keep it neat. However, the Muslim graduate was specifically asked to remove her hijab without a clear reason, the advocates claimed.
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The signatories stated that the candidate had not violated any dress code. Under Clause 2, Chapter 4, of the Bar Council of India Rules, women advocates are permitted to wear a dupatta or traditional dress along with a black coat and bands.
The lawyers condemned the incident, calling it an attack on constitutional rights. "We raise our voice against this, especially in the current socio-political climate. As legal professionals, we see this as an affront to dignity," the representation stated.
The advocates also pointed out that Sikh advocates wear turbans without issue. They argued that Muslim women should also be allowed to wear the hijab without it affecting their ability to practise law.
The group urged the KSBC to take steps to encourage more women into the legal profession. They highlighted that only 15% of enrolled advocates in 2023 were women, based on Bar Council of India data across 15 states. Similarly, just 14% of high court judges were women, according to Supreme Court statistics.
"If any woman overcomes obstacles to become a lawyer, the KSBC must support her," the advocates wrote.
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