Evolution Of Women Related Laws In India

Oviya K, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai-600048, Tamil Nadu

ABSTRACT

Women in India are seen as Lakshmi (Goddess) they are known for their love, sacrifice, care taking, determination, courage and hard work. There are several times in history that urged for equality so that women can live on par with men. Indian society over past years in the history have chained to orthodox traditions, superstitions, myths and make belief. Society formed itself into patriarchal supremacy and women being subjected and portrayed lower than men. With the prevalence of male dominance there were constraints imposed on women in terms of acquisition of education, employment, forced child marriages, Sati, restrictions on widow remarriage, political leaderships, property rights, purdah systems and more. The status of women before the independence of India was deteriorated and they were seen as a sole property of their husband, father and brother. The cruelty and injustice against women rights and freedom were increasing to the point where society believed daughters being born in a household are bad omen to the family. They were not allowed to step out of their homes without a male member. It was presumed that the ultimate destination of women is marriage. But over the years, the women reformers and activists fought for a gender-just society that we live in today. For equal treatment of men and women. Today, women can be seen taking active participation in every field from being a sole proprietor to serving the nation’s prosperity and growth. With the help of legal system and provisions women have become independent socially and politically and do not lack any opportunity.