Gender equality in Indian society: a historical analysis

Abstract

Gender equality is one of the most disputed and evolving issues of Indian society as we have done until date. A number of socio-political, religious, economic, and cultural upheavals in India have transformed the status of women throughout the centuries. Whether one looks to the relatively flexible gender relations of the Vedic period or the rigid structures created in the medieval era, or the colonial social reform movements or the constitutional guarantees granted in post-independence India, the fight for gender equality speaks to the broader history of Indian civilization. Through examining the status of women in ancient, medieval, colonial, and postcolonial periods, this research critically examines the history of gender equality and the role of gender equity in Indian society during and before the last time period. It examines that religion, caste, patriarchy, nationalism, education, the law, women’s movement and women. In addition, the present research analyses both the victories and failures of state legislation and feminist advocacy on the issue of substantive equality. Though constitutional democracy and modernization have enabled more women to participate in education, politics and employment, deep-seated social divisions like caste, dowry, son preference and gender-based violence remain a barrier to equality. Gender in India is a historical, structural issue requiring socio-cultural transformation continuously, an issue that cannot be solved by law alone, the paper concludes.