In a startling turn of events, the Supreme Court has taken a stand on the long-standing battle for adequate women's toilet facilities in the Nilgiris court complex. Justices Aniruddha Bose and Rajesh Bindal have demanded an urgent and detailed report from the Madras High Court Registrar General, shedding light on the current state of affairs in the newly constructed Udhagamandalam (Ooty) combined court complex.

Unsatisfied with the previous report, the Supreme Court bench insists on a thorough investigation into the facilities available to women lawyers. Is there a reduction in space? Are there any hidden discrepancies? These burning questions demand immediate answers.

Highlighting the Women Lawyers Association of Nilgiris' plea, which alleges a shrinkage of facilities for women, the bench took note of their principal demand: the allocation of insufficient space for their essential needs. Adding weight to their cause, the Court referred to an eye-opening Bar & Bench report, revealing the women lawyers' relentless three-decade-long struggle for a basic toilet facility in the court complex.

Unfortunately, the previous report submitted by the Madras High Court Registrar General failed to address the concerns adequately. Dissatisfied, the Supreme Court now calls for a fresh and comprehensive report, emphasizing the need for transparency and a detailed account of the current state of women's facilities.

Amidst this legal tussle, the plea by the Women Lawyers Association faces opposition from the Nilgiris District Bar Association (NDBA), which seeks to be included in the proceedings. Senior Counsel V Mohana, representing the NDBA, fears that the dissatisfaction of a few may tarnish the entire Nilgiris District Bar Association's reputation. With the Court's approval, the NDBA will lend its voice to the proceedings, making this battle all the more intense.

With the Supreme Court's unwavering intervention, the fight for adequate women's toilet facilities in the Nilgiris court complex takes a promising turn. The upcoming detailed report requested from the Madras High Court is set to unravel the truth and pave the way for a just resolution. Will justice finally prevail, or will women lawyers continue to endure the indignity of inadequate facilities? The nation waits with bated breath for the Supreme Court's verdict.

Notable Names:

• Justices Aniruddha Bose and Rajesh Bindal (Supreme Court bench)
• Women Lawyers Association of Nilgiris
• Registrar General of the Madras High Court
• Nilgiris District Bar Association (NDBA)
• Senior Counsel V Mohana (representing NDBA)