Understanding patriarchy and feminism in India is crucial for grasping the broader context of gender equality in the country. Patriarchy has long dominated Indian society, but the feminist movement has continually evolved, addressing the diverse and complex challenges faced by women and transwomen. This article explores the intricate relationship between patriarchy and feminism in India, highlighting historical roots, contemporary struggles, and the ongoing battle for equality.
Understanding patriarchy in India
Patriarchy, defined as a “social organisation marked by the supremacy of the father,” dominates Indian society. Men typically uphold the family, while women manage domestic tasks. This bias renders women vulnerable to abuse and discrimination, perpetuating their subjugation.
Genesis of feminism in India
Feminism in India began as part of the 19th-century middle-class social reform movement. Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Annie Besant focused on preventing the ill-treatment of women and improving their status. Unlike Western feminism, which began with the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, Indian feminism was deeply intertwined with the country’s struggle for independence and addressed the intersectionality of caste, gender, and class. Prior to partition and independence, the All India Women’s Conference (AIWC) emerged as a critical organisation addressing social inequalities and women’s education.
Post-independence, the AIWC, along with the Women’s Indian Association and the National Council for Women in India, played crucial roles in advancing women’s rights. However, these movements often catered to middle-class Savarna women, leading to the rise of the Dalit feminist movement.
Patriarchy and feminism in India: The Indian woman’s struggle
The concept of a “good Indian woman” confines women to their homes, subjecting them to poverty, lack of agency, domestic violence, and limiting their freedom. Historical practices like child marriage and Sati have evolved, yet modern Indian women still face societal victimisation. Veena Das’s ethnographic study reveals that urban Indian men’s perceived “loss of masculinity” as women become earners often leads to domestic abuse. Crime statistics reflect this, with a significant increase in crimes against women over the past decade.
Patriarchy and feminism in India: The Dalit feminist movement
Caste profoundly affects Indian society, with Dalit women facing dual oppression due to gender and caste. The Dalit feminist movement, critiquing the mainstream feminist movement’s exclusivity, seeks to represent Dalit women’s issues. Dalit feminism aims for upward mobility, eliminating violence and discrimination, and ensuring representation in policy-making and education. Inspired by B.R. Ambedkar, many Dalit women have written autobiographies to highlight their struggles, advocating for reservations in education and employment.
Struggles of transwomen in India
Transwomen in India face profound challenges stemming from both gender identity and societal norms. They often encounter severe discrimination, exclusion from families and communities, and limited access to education and employment opportunities. The stigma attached to being transgender results in social ostracisation and economic marginalisation. Despite legal advancements, such as the recognition of transgender individuals as a third gender by the Supreme Court of India in 2014 and the enactment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in 2019, transwomen continue to face violence and discrimination. Advocacy for their rights includes not only legal reforms but also societal acceptance and inclusion, ensuring their dignity and equality.
Modern feminism in India
The feminist movement has driven the enactment of pro-women laws, including the Sati Prevention Act (1987) and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005). Despite these advancements, women still face abuse and societal constraints. Modern feminism addresses workplace discrimination, the wage gap, and public safety for women. Shilpa Phadke’s book, “Why Loiter?” underscores the risks women face in urban areas, advocating for their right to public spaces without fear. Feminism remains crucial for the continued upliftment of Indian women, striving for equality and challenging the patriarchal norms that persist in society.
Patriarchy and feminism in India: Contemporary struggles of women
In contemporary India, women face numerous challenges across various spheres of life. Workplace discrimination remains prevalent, with women often encountering biases that limit their professional growth. The gender pay gap is a persistent issue, with women frequently earning less than their male counterparts for the same work. Sexual harassment in the workplace is another significant concern despite the existence of legal protections.
In rural areas, women struggle with access to education and healthcare, which hinders their social and economic progress. Child marriage, though illegal, still occurs, limiting the opportunities for young girls to pursue education and careers.
Urban women, while having better access to education and employment, face different challenges. Balancing professional and domestic responsibilities often leads to stress and burnout. The lack of safe public spaces is a critical issue, as women frequently face harassment and violence in urban areas.
Activists and organisations continue to work tirelessly to address these issues. Movements like #MeToo have gained momentum in India, highlighting the pervasive problem of sexual harassment and empowering women to speak out. Campaigns for better maternity leave policies, equal pay, and safe workplaces are ongoing, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of contemporary Indian feminism.
The final thoughts
Today, Indian feminism stands at a crucial juncture. The feminist movement has evolved to address the diverse and complex challenges faced by women and transwomen across the country. Significant legal reforms have been enacted to protect women’s rights, but societal attitudes often lag. Modern Indian women and transwomen continue to challenge patriarchal norms, advocating for equality in all spheres of life. From fighting against workplace discrimination and wage gaps to ensuring safety in public spaces, the feminist movement in India is more inclusive and intersectional than ever.
Despite these advances, the journey towards true gender equality is ongoing. Transwomen still face severe discrimination and violence, Dalit women struggle with caste-based oppression, and urban women confront new forms of exploitation in professional settings. However, the resilience and determination of Indian feminists offer hope for a more equitable future. The movement’s focus has expanded to include all marginalised groups, aiming for a society where every individual’s rights are respected and upheld. The ongoing struggle against patriarchy is a testament to the enduring spirit of Indian feminism, striving to create a world where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
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