India’s Supreme Court has introduced a groundbreaking handbook for judges, urging the abandonment of gender-biased terms like “adulteress,” “mistress,” and others. Released on August 16, the guide provides alternative language options to promote fairness and impartiality in the legal system.

Supreme Court Ordered to Avoid Using Gender Stereotypical Words

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud highlighted the profound purpose behind the handbook named ‘Combating Gender Stereotypes.’ This resourceful guide, he stated, stands as a pivotal tool, meticulously crafted to empower judges and the legal community at large. Its primary mission is to unveil, comprehend, and effectively counter the entrenched stereotypes surrounding women within the legal realm.

“Intention is not to criticise or cast doubt on past judgements but merely to show how stereotypes may unwittingly be employed,”he mentioned.

The CJI highlighted that the handbook includes an encompassing glossary of gender-biased expressions. It provides innovative alternatives for use in drafting pleadings, orders, and judgments, underlining its practical utility in promoting equity and neutrality.