Supreme Court Seeks Feedback on Exemption of PwD Lawyers from 3-Year Practice Rule for Judicial Service

The Supreme Court has directed all High Courts and National Law Universities (NLUs) to submit suggestions on whether Persons with Disabilities (PwD) lawyers should be exempted from the mandatory 3-year practice requirement for entry into judicial service.

The issue arises from concerns that the rule disadvantages specially-abled lawyers, as senior advocates may hesitate to hire them, making it harder for them to complete the practice requirement.

The CJI emphasized that while representation of PwD candidates must be ensured, altering the eligibility rule for them alone may be unfair to others. The Court observed that it intends to gather holistic feedback before making any decision and has given a 4-week deadline for submissions.

This follows a May 2025 ruling restoring the minimum 3-year practice condition for judicial service aspirants.

Case: Bhumika Trust v. Union of India, W.P.(C) No. 001110/2025