Vulnerable Sections

Model Answer

Introduction

Despite the significant achievements of women in post-Independent India, patriarchal attitudes continue to obstruct progress towards gender equality. To effectively transform this social milieu, it is essential to implement a variety of interventions beyond just education and empowerment schemes.

Interventions to Change the Milieu

1. Legal Reforms

Strengthening laws related to gender-based violence, property rights, and equal pay is crucial. For instance, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, need strict enforcement to empower women to claim their rights (Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2013). Awareness campaigns about these laws can further enable women to seek justice.

2. Political Representation

The Women’s Reservation Bill, which proposes reserving 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, can enhance female representation in politics. Greater representation challenges patriarchal norms and encourages more gender-sensitive policymaking (NITI Aayog, 2019).

3. Engaging Men and Boys

Encouraging men and boys to participate actively in combating gender discrimination is vital. Programs promoting positive masculinity, such as the HeForShe campaign by UN Women, can engage men as allies in the fight for gender equality (UN Women, 2020).

4. Sensitization and Awareness Campaigns

Campaigns focusing on gender equality and shared responsibilities can reshape societal attitudes. For example, the “Bell Bajao” campaign by Breakthrough India effectively raises awareness about domestic violence (Breakthrough India, 2019).

5. Media Representation

Promoting accurate and diverse representations of women in media can challenge stereotypes. The Advertising Standards Council of India has guidelines to avoid stereotyping women in advertisements, fostering a more balanced portrayal (ASCI, 2020).

6. Workplace Policies

Implementing gender-sensitive workplace policies—such as equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and strong anti-harassment measures—can create inclusive environments that recognize the contributions of all genders (International Labour Organization, 2021).

7. Comprehensive Sex Education

Introducing comprehensive sex education in schools, covering topics like consent and gender identity, can instill respect for gender equality from an early age (UNESCO, 2018).

Conclusion

By implementing these interventions, it is possible to challenge entrenched gender norms and foster a more equitable society. Collective efforts from individuals, communities, and institutions are essential to create an environment where women can thrive alongside men, leading to a more inclusive and progressive society.

Model Answer

Introduction

The representation of women in the higher judiciary is essential for achieving diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. As of 2021, the Supreme Court of India had only four women judges out of 33, accounting for about 12% of total judges. Similarly, women judges in High Courts represented only around 11.5% of the total. This underrepresentation underscores a significant gender disparity in a critical sector.

Importance of Women’s Representation

Diversity of Perspectives

Women often face unique forms of discrimination and social challenges. Their presence in the judiciary can enhance sensitivity to gender-related matters and provide a broader understanding of social issues. This diversity can lead to more nuanced and informed decision-making.

• Source: Reports on gender representation in the judiciary.

Equity and Inclusiveness

Promoting equal opportunities for women in the judiciary helps dismantle barriers and challenge stereotypes that have historically impeded their progress. Ensuring that women have pathways to advance in the legal field is crucial for fostering a more equitable system.

• Source: Studies on gender equity in the legal profession.

Legitimacy and Public Trust

A judiciary that reflects the diversity of the society it serves is more likely to be perceived as fair and impartial. This representation can bolster public trust in the judicial system, reinforcing its legitimacy.

• Source: Surveys on public perception of the judiciary.

International Commitments

Greater representation aligns with international commitments, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. Adhering to these commitments is vital for global progress.

• Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Challenges to Overcome

Despite the recognition of the importance of gender diversity, challenges remain, such as:

• Unconscious biases that affect hiring and promotion decisions.
• Work-life balance issues that disproportionately impact women in demanding legal roles.
• Traditional gender roles that hinder women’s progression in the legal profession.

Conclusion

Initiatives like gender diversity targets or quotas for public prosecutors, exemplified by the Delhi government’s policy mandating that 50% of public prosecutors be women, are crucial for shaping a more inclusive higher judiciary. By addressing these challenges, we can work towards a judiciary that better represents and serves the diverse population of India.