Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (Briefly introduce the PoSH Act) Provide a brief introduction to the PoSH Act as a legislative framework to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Mention the origin of the Act and its foundation in the Vishakha Guidelines ...
The Skewed Scales: Female Feticide and the Fight for Balance India grapples with the persistent issue of female feticide, the selective abortion of female fetuses, leading to a skewed sex ratio. This imbalance has wide-ranging social consequences. Roots of the Problem: Deep-Rooted Patriarchy: Son prRead more
The Skewed Scales: Female Feticide and the Fight for Balance
India grapples with the persistent issue of female feticide, the selective abortion of female fetuses, leading to a skewed sex ratio. This imbalance has wide-ranging social consequences.
Roots of the Problem:
Deep-Rooted Patriarchy: Son preference is deeply ingrained in some cultures, valuing sons for carrying the family name, inheriting property, and providing financial security in old age.
Dowry System: The social evil of dowry, where the bride’s family pays the groom’s family, creates a financial burden associated with daughters.
Lack of Awareness: Limited knowledge about the legality and ethical implications of sex determination tests fuels the practice.
Government Initiatives:
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child): This campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of girls and the illegality of sex-selective abortion.
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Technique (PCPNDT) Act: This law prohibits sex selection before birth and regulates ultrasound clinics.
Effectiveness of Interventions:
Positive Trends: The sex ratio has shown some improvement in recent years. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao is credited with raising awareness.
Challenges Remain: Implementation of PCPNDT Act is uneven. Deep-rooted cultural norms are slow to change. Additionally, female infanticide (killing of girl babies after birth) remains a concern.
Additional Measures:
Empowering Women: Education and economic opportunities for women challenge the perception of them as a burden.
Community Engagement: Involving men and community leaders in discussions about gender equality can foster a shift in attitudes.
** stricter enforcement:** Strengthening the PCPNDT Act with stricter penalties and better monitoring of ultrasound clinics.
Addressing Dowry System: Social reforms and legal measures to eradicate the dowry system can remove a financial disincentive to having daughters.
Positive Role Models: Highlighting successful women and families who celebrate daughters can inspire change.
Financial Incentives: Schemes that provide financial benefits to families with daughters can address the economic concerns associated with girls.
Technology and Innovation:
Developing Non-invasive Prenatal Tests: Advancements in prenatal testing that don’t reveal the sex of the fetus can eliminate the misuse of existing technologies.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Utilizing social media and targeted advertising to reach wider audiences, especially in rural areas.
Eradicating female feticide requires a multi-faceted approach. By addressing the root causes – patriarchy, dowry system, and lack of awareness – alongside stricter enforcement and innovative solutions, India can move towards a more balanced sex ratio and a society that values its daughters.
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Model Answer The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (PoSH Act) was enacted following the Vishakha Guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in 1997, in response to the Vishakha vs. State of Rajasthan case. These guidelines provided the first legal framework to prevent sexual harassmenRead more
Model Answer
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (PoSH Act) was enacted following the Vishakha Guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in 1997, in response to the Vishakha vs. State of Rajasthan case. These guidelines provided the first legal framework to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace until the PoSH Act replaced them in 2013, offering a more comprehensive legal solution to address workplace harassment for women.
Key Provisions of the PoSH Act, 2013
Challenges in Implementation
Measures to Enhance Effectiveness
In conclusion, while the PoSH Act provides robust mechanisms for addressing workplace harassment, challenges like non-compliance and inadequate reporting remain. Effective implementation can be achieved through consistent institutional support, training, and accountability.
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