The status of Indian modern women has undergone a lot of transformation. Today, Indian women enjoy more rights socially, politically, legally and have far greater personal and social freedom. They can voice out their thoughts passionately and fearlessly, thereby participating in public affairs more freely. However, it cannot be denied that they are still discriminated against, exploited, and limited to the ill-conceived concept of being a domestic goddess. There is a lot more to be achieved in terms of women’s empowerment.
How much progress Indian women have made till today
The progression experienced by modern Indian women is quite conspicuous and commendable. Through numerous government-level policy changes, social movements, awareness and other empowering programs, education, and of course, financial opportunities Indian modern women have come a long way. Today, Indian women do receive educational degrees of their choice and get employed in diverse fields of their choice. Today, our country is run by female politicians and administrative officers. They are everywhere, from driving a train to running one of the largest democracies in the world.
If one compares the eras of the 2000s and 1980s, we can see an incredible change. Just two decades, ago the primary role of a woman was that of a homemaker and a very infinitesimal percentage of them were working. The primary professional choices for them would often be few and far between – teacher, clerk whether at a government or private enterprise.
But the situation has undergone a conspicuous alteration for the better with the modern Indian women now joining the armed forces, law enforcement, politics, high-profile administrative, and private-sector jobs, to cite a few. The shackles are slowly ebbing away.
Modern Indian women vs Inequality
Even though modern Indian women are changing societies and making their way to success, they are still challenged by inequality. Society has indeed changed its view of Indian women but it is still inadequate. Inequality in various ways, such as lack of safety, salary discrimination, under-representation in politics, lack of opportunities, etc., look into their eyes every day.
Efforts towards educating women have made some advancements, nonetheless, it still falls short form being impressive, as a good percentage of Indian girls are still dropping out of the curriculum for lack of money, infrastructure, and early marriage as compared to men. There is a glaring disparity between the percentage of graduate women and men in India.
Moreover, Indian women face fear and harassment due to societal, familial, and other forms of pressure, and this is more so in the case of economically weaker girls and women. Even in professional roles, they face inequality of sorts – from pay disparity to drawing unwarranted judgments about appearances or capabilities. They often get cheaper salary deals for the same quality and quantity of work that their male colleagues do. But things are indeed changing with both women and men supporting and speaking up for women.
Modern Indian women are still vulnerable. They are still subject to harassment and violence. Society should encourage women to break out of these shackles to speak up fearlessly and forge ahead confidently.
Laws made in support of Indian Modern women
Below are stated some of the laws that have been made in favour of women in India -
Right to equal pay
Under the Equal Remuneration Act, women cannot be discriminated against based on their gender concerning salaries or wages. Working women have the right to get an equal salary for an equal amount of work.
Right to dignity and decency
In the event of any criminal offence, the woman, who is the accuser, will undergo a medical examination in the presence of another woman
Rights against workplace harassment
Any sexual harassment of a woman at her workplace is a punishable offence under POSH. POSH gives an Indian woman the right to file a complaint of sexual harassment that may have taken place at her workplace. Under this act, women can submit a written complaint to an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at a branch office within 3 months.
Right against domestic violence
Section 498 of the Indian Constitution protects the wife, or female live-in partner, or woman living in a household like a single mother or sister from domestic violence (including verbal, economic, emotional, and sexual) by their husband, male live-in partner, or relatives. The accused will be punished with non-bailable imprisonment for a term that may extend up to three years and can also be liable to a fine.
Women have the right not to be arrested at night
Unless it is an exceptional case following the order from a first-class magistrate, Indian women or girls cannot be arrested after sunset or before sunrise. The law also states that police can interrogate a woman at her residence only in the presence of a female constable and her family members and/or friends.
Women activists that are promoting the evolution of Indian modern women
Here are some of those Indian women who have put in tremendous efforts trying to bring a positive change in the lives of Indian women and girls -
Aranya Johar — An Indian poet, she is also known for actively raising her voice against misogyny, body shaming, and stigma around mental health. She is the youngest member of the G7’s Gender Equality Advisory Council.
Kamla Bhasin — She is a famous scientist who works for causes and issues related to education, media, and gender. She has been a champion of women’s rights for the last 35 years. She is currently a part of SANGAT, a South Asian Feminist Network, as an advisor
Aruna Roy — Aruna is a 74-year-old activist, who played a significant role in making the Right to Information Act see the light of the day. She founded the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), which works for the upliftment of peasants and workers in India.
Medha Patkar — She is the founding member of the famous Narmada Bachao Andolan, which vociferously and passionately promoted the conservation of the river Narmada. She works for the upliftment of tribals, farmers, Dalits and women facing injustice in India.
Modern Indian women are still evolving
Even though modern Indian women are shattering boundaries, it is still not an easy process with the family, society, and even her deep-rooted sense of self-censorship, coming in their ways. To help women evolve, society needs to redouble its efforts, because it is still not enough. Women still face traditional and conservative dogma that is unique to Indian society. We need to encourage more awareness programs and sensitize men about the importance of equality. The fact that patriarchy is harmful to men needs to be understood. In this regard, the new and emerging technologies, such as the Internet and social media is also gradually establishing themselves as an enabler.
What modern Indian women still need to do
Indian women need to learn quite a few things. To begin with, women despite joining the workforce, do not exhibit enough interest in updating their knowledge of the world around them – politics, investments, pro-women policies, technology, to list a few.
Freedom is directly proportional to self-dependence and this can be secured only through financial independence – women need to understand this. Women also need to understand the importance of networking in today’s times. Women who are today working in higher positions need to encourage more women to aim for bigger roles.
Another important aspect that needs attention is the salary-negotiation process that women are particularly not good at handling. Patriarchal upbring has made women doubt their self-worth leading them to often settle for lower packages for the same work that their male colleagues do but for a higher amount.
Modern Indian women and their future
The future ahead is becoming more and more favourable for women universally. As societies are learning, opening up and changing, their opinion of the man-woman relationship is also being redefined. Societies, especially the deeply traditional ones, are comprehending that women can do more than just take care of their family and domestic chores. The Indian government is continuously working for the betterment of Indian girls and women. Many NGOs and activists are working for the better future of Indian women. Offices are revisiting their HR policies to factor in the unique needs of female employees.
Conclusion
Indian modern women are evolving. They are stepping out of their homes and contributing to society with their skills and capabilities. But for sure it is still a long way to go. The situation of marginalized women, economically weak women and women from backward classes merit additional efforts for improvement. At the same time, men and by extension families, need to broaden their minds. A country cannot shine if half of its population is shortchanged on and bereft of opportunities. It is not only the responsibility of the government but also the civic society to work towards championing women’s rights to usher women empowerment across India.
FAQs
POSH, i.e., Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2013 is a mandate of the Indian government for every employer making it compulsory for the latter to ensure safety for female employees.
Indian woman is entitled to claim maintenance during divorce from her separating partner, even if she works, for her sole income may not suffice her and her child’s needs.