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Women Directors Under Company Law: Legal Framework, Challenges, And The Way Forward




Shrinithi, Tamilselvi & Tarun, KMC College of Law


ABSTRACT


The role of women directors in corporate governance has garnered increasing attention in recent decades, especially in the context of promoting gender diversity and inclusivity on corporate boards. This study explores the evolving legal and regulatory frameworks in company law concerning the appointment of women directors in India, along with the challenges and implications of these mandates. With the introduction of Section 149(1) of the Companies Act, 2013, which mandates the inclusion of at least one woman director on the board of certain companies, there has been a gradual shift in corporate board structures. However, compliance has varied, and meaningful participation remains an area of concern. This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of such legal provisions, the barriers faced by women in reaching board positions, and the broader impact of women’s presence on corporate performance and governance. Through a qualitative analysis of existing literature, regulatory frameworks, and data on board compositions, the study highlights both progress and persistent gaps. The research further identifies areas for reform and suggests measures to enhance the role and influence of women directors in India’s corporate sector. This analysis serves to inform policymakers, corporations, and stakeholders about the legal, ethical, and practical importance of women’s representation at the highest levels of decision-making.



Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research

Abbreviation: IJLLR

ISSN: 2582-8878

Website: www.ijllr.com

Accessibility: Open Access

License: Creative Commons 4.0

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Licensing: 

 

All research articles published in The Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research are fully open access. i.e. immediately freely available to read, download and share. Articles are published under the terms of a Creative Commons license which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

 

Disclaimer:

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the IJLLR or its members. The designations employed in this publication and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the IJLLR.

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