Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Definition of Patriarchy Briefly explain patriarchy as a system of male dominance affecting various aspects of life. Context of Middle-Class Women Define the middle class in India and their aspirations for economic growth while adhering to traditional values. State the thesis: ...
Model Answer Introduction The women’s movement in India has been pivotal in advocating for women's rights and gender equality, particularly gaining momentum in the 1970s and 80s. While organizations such as Saheli and Manushi have emerged to address specific issues, a critical examination reveals thRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The women’s movement in India has been pivotal in advocating for women’s rights and gender equality, particularly gaining momentum in the 1970s and 80s. While organizations such as Saheli and Manushi have emerged to address specific issues, a critical examination reveals that these movements have largely overlooked the concerns of women from lower social strata.
Leadership from Upper and Middle Classes
One significant reason for this oversight is that the movement has predominantly been led by women from upper and middle-class backgrounds. Early leaders like Pandita Ramabai and later activists such as Medha Patkar were primarily urban and educated, leading to a disconnect with the realities faced by poor, rural women (Kumar, 2020). Their experiences often shaped the movement’s focus, which frequently aligned with the issues affecting women of similar socio-economic status rather than those of marginalized groups.
Limited Economic Focus
The feminist movement has largely concentrated on issues such as violence against women and reproductive rights, neglecting economic concerns of women in informal sectors. Many women from lower strata work as domestic laborers or in agriculture, facing exploitative conditions and low wages—issues that have not been adequately addressed (Patel, 2019).
Caste and Additional Constraints
Furthermore, the caste dimension is critical for women from lower strata, yet it remains largely unaddressed in mainstream feminist discourse. Women from marginalized castes endure compounded oppression, including limited access to education and property (Rai, 2021). The language and frameworks used in feminist movements often alienate these women, who may be illiterate and unable to engage with the discourse.
Selective Issue Coverage
Additionally, the women’s movement tends to emphasize high-profile issues like temple entry and triple talaq, which do not resonate with the everyday struggles of lower-class women. For instance, while sexual and domestic violence is pervasive among these women, it has not received adequate attention within feminist narratives (Sharma, 2022).
Conclusion
While the women’s movement in India has made notable advancements, it has largely failed to address the concerns of women from lower social strata. To foster true gender equality and social justice, the movement must adopt a more inclusive and intersectional approach, ensuring that the voices and needs of all women are represented.
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Model Answer Introduction Patriarchy, as an institutional structure characterized by male dominance, significantly influences the lives of middle-class working women in India. This system manifests in various aspects of life, including moral authority, social privilege, and decision-making. The middRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Patriarchy, as an institutional structure characterized by male dominance, significantly influences the lives of middle-class working women in India. This system manifests in various aspects of life, including moral authority, social privilege, and decision-making. The middle class, which aspires for economic growth while adhering to traditional values, experiences the effects of patriarchy acutely.
Body
Dual Burden
Middle-class working women often face the challenge of balancing traditional household responsibilities with their professional roles. This dual burden can lead to stress and burnout, as they are expected to excel in both domains.
Marriage as a Career Stopping Point
Marriage is often viewed as a fundamental milestone for women, but it frequently acts as a career stopper. Many women are pressured to quit their jobs upon marriage, limiting their professional growth and independence.
Child-Rearing Responsibilities
Childbirth and child-rearing are traditionally seen as women’s responsibilities. This societal expectation makes it difficult for women to maintain full-time employment, as they are often expected to prioritize family over career.
Wage Disparity
Despite performing the same roles as their male counterparts, women often earn less. The wage gap persists due to biases against hiring women, particularly in light of maternity leave provisions, which some employers view as a liability.
Limited Decision-Making Power
Even when women contribute financially, their opinions are often undervalued in family decision-making processes. This lack of recognition can lead to diminished self-confidence and productivity, as their capabilities are not acknowledged.
Glass Ceiling Effect
Women frequently encounter a “glass ceiling,” where they are overlooked for promotions and leadership roles due to patriarchal beliefs that deem them unsuitable for higher positions.
Safety Concerns
Middle-class working women often rely on public transport, exposing them to safety risks, including harassment. The lack of security measures in a patriarchal society further exacerbates these concerns, limiting women’s mobility and potential.
Feminization of Labor
Certain jobs, often labeled as “pink-collar,” are deemed appropriate for women, such as teaching and nursing. This societal norm restricts women from pursuing careers in fields considered taboo, thereby limiting their professional opportunities.
Conclusion
The position of middle-class working women in India is heavily influenced by patriarchal structures that impose traditional roles and expectations. While their financial contributions are acknowledged, the act of working is often frowned upon. To achieve gender equality, it is essential to dismantle these patriarchal norms and create equitable opportunities for women.
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