In a groundbreaking stride toward gender inclusivity in India’s legal landscape, the Pala Bar Association in Kerala has made history by electing an all-women executive committee for the first time. This unprecedented move sets a powerful example for bar associations across the country and is being hailed as a milestone for women’s leadership in the legal profession.
Advocate Usha Menon emerged victorious in the presidential race with 163 votes, defeating Advocate Josekutty Kuzhithottam, who garnered 70 votes. The remaining 14 positions — including Vice President, Secretary, Joint Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Committee Members — were filled unopposed, completing the all-women leadership team.
This bold step comes in the wake of a Supreme Court directive mandating at least one-third reservation for women in bar association leadership roles. By electing a fully female panel, the Pala Bar Association has gone beyond the mandate, championing the cause of gender-balanced governance.
The newly elected team will officially take charge on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Speaking after her win, Advocate Usha Menon stated that the all-women panel was not a planned initiative but the result of a natural and democratic process, strongly supported by male colleagues and senior members of the legal fraternity. She emphasized the panel’s commitment to unity, mentorship, and empowering junior members through training and guidance.
This historic development is being celebrated across legal and social circles as a progressive step forward, reflecting the changing mindset toward leadership diversity and equal opportunity in India’s legal institutions.
