Question

Numerous laws were formulated for the reformation of the condition of women in India in the post-Independence period. Discuss.

Answer 1

Instructions:

1. Discuss the laws formulated against practices like sati and dowry.
2. Mention the establishment of family courts.
3. Discuss the reservation for women.

Solution:

• In 1952, women were given the right to alimony and a share in the property of their father.
• Polygamy was declared illegal and women were given the right to sue their husband for divorce.
• In 1961, under the Dowry Prohibition Act, the act of giving and taking dowry became a criminal offence.
• In 1961, the Maternity Benefit Act was implemented, under which women received the right to take leave during pregnancy.
• On 4th September 1987, Roop Kanwar died due to coercion to perform Sati. This case was investigated by women activists like Anu Joseph, Geeta Seshu, Kalpana Sharma, Meena Menon and Sujata Anandan. In 1988, the Sati (Prevention) Act with stricter provisions was passed.
• Family courts were established to solve the problems within marriage, thereby prioritising mutual understanding over evidence.
• Women were provided one-third reservation after the 73rd and 74th amendments.
• Seats were reserved for women in Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samitis, and Zilla Parishads, etc.
• The principle of equality among men and women was included in the Constitution.
• In 1993, the Protection of Human Rights Act was enacted. Its main objective was to prevent any type of injustice to men and women.
• The National Human Rights Commission was also established.