women Empowerment unit 2

CLASS-B.sc 2 year all stream

subject-  Women Empowerment

subject type- Foundation 

Compiled by-Dr. RUCHI SINGH

NOTES- 

Women empowerment in India is secured through key Constitutional Provisions like Articles 14, 15, 16, 39, 42, and 51A(e), guaranteeing equality, non-discrimination, equal pay, maternity relief, and dignity, alongside crucial Laws such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005), Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act (2013), Dowry Prohibition Act (1961), and various amendments ensuring rights in marriage, property, and against violence, all aiming for gender equality and upliftment. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 14: Equality before the law and equal protection of laws for all citizens, including women, ensuring equal opportunities.
• Article 15(1): Prohibits discrimination by the State on grounds of sex, among others.
• Article 15(3): Allows the State to make special provisions (affirmative action) for women and children to overcome disadvantages.
• Article 16: Ensures equality of opportunity in public employment, prohibiting sex-based discrimination.
• Article 21: Guarantees the Right to Life and Personal Liberty, including the right to live with dignity.
• Article 23: Prohibits traffic in human beings and forced labor.
• Article 39(a) & (d): Directs the State to secure adequate means of livelihood and equal pay for equal work for both men and women.
• Article 42: Mandates the State to make provisions for just and humane working conditions and maternity relief.
• Article 51A(e): Makes it a fundamental duty to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
• Articles 243D & 243T (73rd/74th Amendments): Reserve one-third seats for women in Panchayats and Municipalities. [2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]

Key Laws for Women Empowerment

• The Hindu Succession Act (1956, amended 2005): Grants equal property rights to daughters.
• Maternity Benefit Act (1961, amended 2017): Provides paid leave and benefits for working women.
• Dowry Prohibition Act (1961): Prohibits giving or taking dowry.
• Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act (1971): Allows safe abortion under specific conditions.
• Equal Remuneration Act (1976): Ensures equal pay for equal work.
• Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2006): Aims to prevent child marriage.
• Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005): Protects women from various forms of domestic abuse.
• Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act (2013): Addresses workplace sexual harassment. [1, 9, 10, 11]