Breaking a Historic Barrier in Legal Administration
Gender Barrier Broken: Anju Rathi Rana Becomes Law Secretary: India has achieved a landmark moment in legal history with the appointment of Anju Rathi Rana as the country’s first woman Law Secretary. This is a role traditionally held by men since the inception of the post. Rana’s appointment is a powerful symbol of gender inclusion in governance and reflects a shift towards equal representation in high-ranking administrative positions. Her selection marks a progressive step by the Ministry of Law and Justice to recognize merit and experience beyond gender.
A Career Built on Decades of Legal Service
Anju Rathi Rana is not new to India’s legal circles. A distinguished officer from the Indian Legal Service (ILS), she has built a strong reputation through her decades-long career. She served as a public prosecutor in the Delhi Government for 18 years, handling high-stakes litigation on behalf of the state. Her ability to navigate complex legal challenges earned her respect within both administrative and legal communities. In 2027, she was elevated to the position of Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Law and Justice, where she dealt with legal policies and governance frameworks.
What Her Role as Law Secretary Entails
Now, as the Secretary of Legal Affairs, Anju Rathi Rana is tasked with some of the most crucial responsibilities in the Indian legal ecosystem. She will be the principal legal advisor to the central government, guide the drafting of legislation, and oversee all litigation that involves the Government of India. In addition to managing domestic legal matters, she will also deal with international treaties and compliance issues. This position places her at the intersection of policy, law, and governance—making her a key player in shaping India’s legal future.
Significance for Women and Legal Reforms
Rana’s appointment is being celebrated as a milestone for gender equity in civil services. It sends a strong message that competence and dedication can break barriers, no matter how longstanding they may be. Her rise to the top is expected to inspire a new generation of women legal professionals to aim for leadership roles within government institutions. At the same time, her experience is likely to bolster legal reforms and improve the transparency and efficiency of India’s legislative processes.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
Gender Barrier Broken: Anju Rathi Rana Becomes Law Secretary:
| Name | Anju Rathi Rana |
| Position | Secretary, Legal Affairs (Law Secretary) |
| Appointment Year | 2025 |
| First Woman to Hold Post | Yes |
| Previous Position | Joint Secretary, Ministry of Law & Justice |
| Earlier Post Holder | Niten Chandra (IAS) |
| Legal Background | 18 years as Public Prosecutor, Delhi Govt |
| Cadre | Indian Legal Service (ILS) |
| Ministry | Ministry of Law and Justice |
