Author(s): Jha Ashish
Paper Details: Volume 3, Issue 2
Citation: IJLSSS 3(2) 50
Page No: 573 – 587
INTRODUCTION
In the complex tapestry of Indian society, the role and status of women have been pivotal yet tumultuous over the years. From cultural norms to legal reforms, the trajectory of women’s rights in India has witnessed significant shifts, especially in the period from 2014 to 2025. This article delves into the challenges faced by Indian women, the transformations observed, and the persistent issues that continue to plague their safety and empowerment.
WHO IS WOMAN ACCORDING TO INDIANS?
यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवताः । यत्रैतास्तु न पूज्यन्ते सर्वास्तत्राफलाः II (मनुस्मृति ३/५६) It means that “Where women are worshiped, there lives the Gods. Wherever they are not worshiped, all actions result in failure”. In Indian culture, a woman embodies various roles: she is a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and a pillar of strength in familial and social contexts. Traditionally, she has been revered as a symbol of resilience and sacrifice, yet often constrained by patriarchal norms that limit her autonomy and opportunities.
MAJOR CHALLENGES OF WOMEN IN INDIA
Historically, Indian women have grappled with numerous challenges. These include gender-based discrimination, limited access to education and healthcare, economic disparities, and systemic biases that inhibit their full participation in societal development. Despite constitutional safeguards and progressive legislation, implementation gaps and deep-rooted cultural beliefs continue to hinder their advancement.
GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE[1]
Gender-based violence, including rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment, honour killings, and trafficking, continues to be a pervasive issue. In spite of legal reforms and increased awareness, many cases go unreported, and survivors often face societal stigma, inadequate support systems, and slow judicial processes. Gender-based violence not only violates women’s rights but also perpetuates a culture of fear and inequality, affecting their physical and mental well-being. Ensuring women’s safety in public spaces remains a significant challenge. Instances of harassment, stalking, molestation, and eve-teasing are prevalent, reflecting inadequate infrastructure, law enforcement gaps, and cultural attitudes that tolerate or normalize violence against women. Fear of violence restricts women’s mobility and access to public spaces, limiting their participation in education, employment, and social activities.
Deep-rooted social and cultural norms perpetuate gender inequalities and restrict women’s autonomy. Practices such as dowry system, child marriage, restrictions on mobility, and patriarchal expectations limit women’s opportunities and perpetuate discrimination. Cultural norms shape societal attitudes and behaviours, influencing gender roles and perpetuating inequality in various spheres of life. Women continue to be underrepresented in decision-making roles in politics and governance. Despite constitutional provisions and reservation of seats for women in local governance bodies, barriers such as lack of support from political parties, patriarchal attitudes, and socio-economic factors hinder their political participation and leadership. Even supposing legal reforms, women often face challenges in accessing justice, including delays in legal proceedings, insensitive treatment by law enforcement agencies, and societal pressure to settle cases outside the formal legal system. Implementation of laws related to gender equality and violence against women remains uneven. Inadequate access to justice perpetuates impunity for perpetrators and undermines women’s trust in the legal system.
- Nirbhaya Gang Rape Case (2017) 6 SCC 1 (2012, but significant legal proceedings continued post-2014)[2]– Sexual violence and safety of women in public spaces.
The gang rape and murder of a young woman, widely known as Nirbhaya, in Delhi in 2012 incited widespread protests and led to significant legal reforms across the nation. The individuals responsible for this heinous act were convicted and sentenced to death in 2013, with legal proceedings continuing beyond 2014. This tragic case has brought to light the alarming prevalence of sexual violence against women and emphasised the urgent need for stricter laws and enhanced safety measures in public spaces. It also revealed systemic deficiencies in addressing gender-based violence, prompting calls for substantial improvements in safety protocols and judicial processes.
- Unnao Rape Case (2017-2019)[3] – Sexual violence, abuse of power, and delayed justice
In 2017, a minor girl from Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly raped by a local politician. The case gained national attention due to allegations of police inaction and intimidation against the victim’s family. Despite public outcry and media scrutiny, justice was delayed, and the handling of the case raised concerns about impunity for powerful individuals accused of sexual crimes.
- Hyderabad Vet Rape and Murder Case (2019) – Safety and security of women in urban areas.
A veterinarian in Hyderabad was abducted, raped, and murdered by four individuals. This tragic case has drawn significant attention to the critical issue of women’s safety, particularly within urban environments. It has sparked discussions regarding police responsiveness, the effectiveness of public surveillance, and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect vulnerable groups.
- Delhi Cantt. Domestic Violence and Murder Case (2021) – Domestic violence and inadequate support systems.
A woman in Delhi Cantonment was reportedly murdered by her husband following years of domestic abuse. This incident underscores the widespread issue of domestic violence and the significant challenges women encounter in seeking assistance. Factors such as social stigma, insufficient support services, and the complexities of the legal system contribute to the difficulties faced by victims in finding help.
These text addresses critical issues affecting women in India from 2014 to the present, focusing on the ongoing challenges of sexual violence, domestic abuse, and systemic failures within the justice system. It underscores how societal attitudes contribute to the perpetuation of gender-based violence. Despite an increase in public awareness and demands for legal reform, effectively addressing these challenges requires a sustained commitment to enhancing law enforcement practices, implementing judicial reforms, and improving social awareness and support systems for survivors of violence. Continued efforts in these areas are essential for cultivating a safer environment for women and ensuring the delivery of justice.
RISING CRIMES AGAINST INDIAN WOMEN SINCE 2014
The data presents a clear trend of increasing figures year after year, with a notable exception in 2020, when India was significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The onset of the pandemic triggered a severe nationwide lockdown that suspended various activities, from businesses to social interactions, for extended periods. This extraordinary situation not only disrupted daily life but also adversely affected the collection and reporting of critical data, creating an anomaly in the statistics.
The year 2021 saw the release of crime data by the government, which disclosed a shocking uptick in crimes against women, marking the highest recorded levels in the nation’s history. This alarming statistic has raised serious concerns among activists and advocates for women’s rights, who fear that the rise in numbers reflects deeper, systemic issues in society, as well as increased vulnerability for women. In contrast, government officials attribute the surge not only to a genuine increase in crimes but also to enhanced reporting mechanisms that have encouraged more individuals to come forward and report incidents to law enforcement. This dual perspective on the situation continues to fuel discussions and debates about the safety of women in India and the efficacy of the justice system.
INCIDENTS OF CRIMES GRAPH AGAINST WOMEN
The report underscored a troubling rise in violent and coercive offenses reported in 2021, revealing an alarming array of incidents that included Kidnappings, Abductions, Sexual Assaults, Domestic Violence, Dowry-related Homicides, and Physical Assaults. Among these distressing figures, 107 womens endured the horrific experience of Acid Attacks, while a staggering 1,580 womens fell victim to Human Trafficking, highlighting the pervasive issue of exploitation. Additionally, as many as 15 young girls were trafficked specifically for sale, a harrowing reality that underscores the vulnerability of minors in such distressing circumstances. The realm of cybercrimes also saw a steep rise, with 2,668 womens reported as victims, reflecting the growing threats in the Digital Landscape.
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, with a staggering population of approximately 240 million people, stood out with an alarming total of over 56,000 reported cases of various offenses, making it the state with the highest incidence of such crimes. Following Uttar Pradesh were Rajasthan and Maharashtra, with reported cases of 40,738 and 39,526 respectively, further emphasizing the widespread nature of these issues across several states in India.
RISING IN RAPE CASES
The police have reported a total of 31,878 cases of Rape, reflecting a significant increase from the previous year’s count of 28,153 cases. However, this figure shows an 18% decrease compared to the 39,068 cases documented in 2016. Unfortunately, India has gained the troubling distinction of being referred to as “the rape capital of the world” due to the high incidence of reported rape cases. It is important to note that this issue is not confined to India alone; numerous other countries face similar or even higher rates of reported rape incidents. Critics highlight that India’s reputation is further impacted by the treatment of victims and survivors, who often endure social stigma and shame, not only from society at large but also from the police and legal systems..
KIDNAPPINGS & ABDUCTIONS
The data documents 76,263 cases of women being unlawfully detained and taken against their will, marking a 14% increase from the 66,544 cases reported in 2016. Some of these incidents involved criminal acts such as homicide and extortion, while many women were subjected to trafficking for purposes like Prostitution and Domestic Servitude.
VIOLENCE INSIDE THE HOME
Violence occurring within domestic settings is frequently characterized legally as “cruelty by the husband or his relatives” and has consistently represented the most commonly reported form of violence against women in India. In the year 2021, law enforcement agencies received complaints from 137,693 womens, averaging approximately one complaint every four minutes. This figure indicates a 28% increase from 2016, when 110,749 womens sought assistance from the authorities. A recent government survey revealed that over 40% of women and 38% of men perceived certain circumstances as justifications for a man to exert physical force against his wife. These circumstances included instances in which the wife demonstrated disrespect towards her in-laws, neglected household responsibilities or child care, left the residence without prior notification to her husband, refused sexual relations, or failed to adequately fulfill cooking duties.
DOWRY DEATHS
The long-standing custom of the bride’s family presenting money, ornaments, and other costly gifts to the groom’s family persists widely. Advocates point out that new wives often face harassment if they fail to bring a satisfactory dowry, leading to the tragic deaths of thousands at the hands of their spouses and in-laws each year. Tragically, many of these women are fatally burned, and these murders are deceitfully portrayed as “kitchen accidents.”
Experts indicate that the customs surrounding dowry in India have not significantly shifted between 2014 and the present day. They suggest that unless there have been major changes in marriage practices, legal frameworks, educational levels of individuals, and women’s economic opportunities, the patterns of dowry payments are likely to persist as they were. Despite the enactment of the stringent Section 498A legislation in 1983(IPC) in India ( Now it is given u/s 85 & 86 of Bhartiya Nayay Sanhita,2023) aimed at addressing dowry-related fatalities, a substantial number of brides continue to face fatal outcomes each year. Alarmingly, police documentation from the preceding year documented 6,805 dowry-related deaths, equating to an average occurrence of one fatality every 65 minutes.
FAILURE OF SEVERAL WOMEN-CENTRIC POLICIES AND INITIATIVES HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED IN INDIA FROM 2014.
BETI BACHAO BETI PADHAO (BBBP) CAMPAIGN
Launched in 2015, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign was initiated in India with the dual objectives of curbing the alarming decline in child sex ratios and promoting the education of girls across the country. This initiative was designed to combat deeply entrenched societal preferences for sons, which have historically favored the male gender in various cultural contexts.Despite its noble intentions and the resultant increase in public awareness regarding the importance of girl children, critics have pointed out that the campaign has struggled to confront and dismantle the profound cultural biases that continue to favor sons. As a result, many regions have witnessed only marginal or negligible improvements in sex ratios, indicating that the campaign’s impact has not been as significant as its advocates had hoped.
Furthermore, numerous challenges have surfaced regarding the effective implementation of the BBBP program. Issues such as inadequate fund utilization, lack of proper monitoring mechanisms, and insufficient grassroots engagement have hindered its success. These implementation gaps have raised concerns about the campaign’s overall efficacy in instigating meaningful change in societal attitudes and improving the status of girls in India.
NIRBHAYA FUND
Established in 2013, the Nirbhaya Fund was created with the noble vision of bolstering safety and security for women across the nation. Despite its well-intentioned goals, the fund has faced criticism for significant delays in allocating and utilizing resources that could improve women’s safety infrastructure, set up vital helplines, and enhance police training. Detractors point to bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of coordination among various stakeholders as major obstacles, hindering the effective execution of initiatives meant to protect and empower women.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013
The legislation requires that all workplaces establish Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) to effectively handle complaints of sexual harassment. However, numerous organizations have faced challenges with compliance and the overall effectiveness of these committees. A significant issue is the general lack of awareness surrounding the existence and functioning of ICCs among both employees and employers. Many employees may not fully understand their rights or the procedures for reporting harassment, while employers may not prioritize or adequately train their ICC members. Additionally, the enforcement mechanisms meant to uphold this law are often insufficient, further diluting its intended impact. As a result, the ability of these committees to foster safe and supportive work environments for women remains critically compromised.
PRADHAN MANTRI MATRU VANDANA YOJANA (PMMVY)
The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), launched in 2017, is designed to provide financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women, aimed at compensating for wage loss and ensuring adequate nutrition during this crucial period. However, some critiques indicate that the implementation and coverage of the scheme have experienced inconsistencies. Concerns have been raised regarding delays in the disbursement of benefits to eligible beneficiaries, attributed to bureaucratic inefficiencies and complex procedural requirements that have impeded the timely and effective delivery of support.
DIGITAL LITERACY AND WOMEN’S SAFETY APPS
Initiatives aimed at boosting digital literacy and enhancing safety for women, like the Himmat app in Delhi, have faced their fair share of criticism. Many have pointed out that these programs struggle with limited reach, usability issues, and often fail to respond effectively during emergencies. In rural areas, connectivity problems and a lack of awareness among potential users further hinder these efforts, making it challenging to improve women’s safety in meaningful ways.
While the Modi government has launched a variety of initiatives to uplift the status and rights of women in India, numerous criticisms and shortcomings still linger. To truly make a difference, it’s crucial to go beyond just crafting policies. We need robust implementation, thorough monitoring, and effective evaluation mechanisms. Only then can we ensure that women-centric policies lead to real, positive changes in the lives of women across the nation.
EMERGING ISSUES SINCE 2014
The engagement of Indian women in the political arena is a complex and multifaceted issue, influenced by a myriad of historical, cultural, and structural factors. Deep-rooted social norms and traditional gender roles have often restricted women’s participation in governance, leading to their significant underrepresentation in political offices and decision-making processes. While there have been strides in recent years, such as the implementation of initiatives that ensure a quota for women in local government bodies and legislative assemblies, the road to gender parity and increased political engagement remains fraught with challenges.Numerous barriers persist, including entrenched gender biases, societal expectations that prioritize male leadership, and unequal access to political resources and networks that are often dominated by men. Additionally, women often face obstacles in the form of violence and intimidation in political spaces, which further discourages their participation.Programs aimed at empowering women such as workshops, educational campaigns, and advocacy for gender-sensitive public policies are essential in cultivating a supportive environment for their political involvement. Despite these initiatives, the question arises: will we witness a substantial shift in the role of women in Indian politics in the foreseeable future? This inquiry is intricate and demands comprehensive commitment from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the general populace, all of whom must work collaboratively to nurture a more inclusive and equitable political landscape.As the Indian General Elections of 2024 loom closer, it is crucial to maintain a spotlight on the importance of women’s representation within political realms. The pursuit of a diverse and fair political environment, where all voices are heard and valued, must remain a priority for the collective advancement of society as a whole. It is vital to advocate for systemic changes that not only enhance women’s participation but also ensure that their perspectives and needs are central to the political discourse, thereby paving the way for a more dynamic and representative democracy in India.
G20 SUMMIT 2023
The noticeable absence of women at this year’s G20 summit raises important questions about gender representation in global leadership. As we examine the current lineup of candidates in the ongoing election, it seems that any potential changes in representation may be gradual. In the initial phase on April 19, women made up only 8% of the candidates, indicating that while there may be a slight increase in female representation as the election progresses, substantial change is unlikely in the short term. These observations underscore the ongoing necessity for initiatives aimed at enhancing gender diversity and inclusivity within political spaces and on prominent global platforms like the G20 summit.
THE 2019 LOK SABHA ELECTIONS
The data from the 2019 Lok Sabha elections underscores the ongoing issue of women’s underrepresentation in Indian politics. With only 9% of women as candidates and a success rate slightly above 10% in 2019, it’s evident that there’s a substantial gender gap in political participation. Despite a rise in the number of women in the current Lok Sabha, with 78 female members making up just 14% of the total, the disparity remains stark. This stands in stark contrast to the increasing number of women voters, who slightly outnumbered men in 2019, with 67.18% women compared to 67.01% men participating in the electoral process. These figures highlight the urgent need for targeted actions to address gender imbalances in political representation. Encouraging more women to engage in politics, implementing policies that consider gender perspectives, and creating a supportive atmosphere for female candidates are vital steps toward achieving greater gender equality and inclusivity in the realm of Indian politics. In Tamil Nadu shed light on the persistent issue of low representation despite some progress. In Tamil Nadu, where 76 women are contesting out of a total of 950 candidates for 39 seats, the proportion of women candidates remains relatively low at 8% of the total. Although there has been an increase from the 2019 figures when 67 women contested, the overall representation of women in politics is still limited. Moreover, the success rate for women candidates in Tamil Nadu in 2019 was notably low, with only three out of the 67 women who stood for elections managing to win. These numbers underscore the challenges that women encounter in securing electoral victories and emphasize the importance of implementing measures to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the political sphere. In Uttar Pradesh, with its 80 parliamentary seats, the disparity in the number of women contesting compared to men is glaring, with only seven women candidates standing against 80 men in the first phase.
Similarly, in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Kerala, the numbers reveal a consistent pattern of underrepresentation of women. Rajasthan, with 25 Lok Sabha seats, has just 10 women candidates, while Gujarat, with 26 seats, currently boasts only eight women in the electoral race, with the potential for this count to rise. In Kerala, out of the 194 candidates vying for 20 seats, a mere 25 are women, indicating a significant gender imbalance in the political arena. These statistics underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to bridge the gender disparity in political participation and foster a more inclusive and equitable political environment in India. It highlights the importance of promoting and supporting women’s active involvement in politics to ensure a more diverse and representative democracy.
RESERVATION HELPS WOMEN?
Admitting the positive strides made in local governance with the 33% reservation for women in Panchayats and Nagarpalikas, the reluctance to extend this quota to State legislatures and the Parliament highlights deeper-rooted issues. The resistance from political parties stems from the significant power and financial interests entwined in higher levels of politics. Men, who have historically dominated the political landscape, are hesitant to share or relinquish their positions to women. This power struggle, coupled with the influence of money in elections, creates a challenging environment for independent women and men without substantial financial resources to enter the political arena. The existing trend where women who do manage to enter politics often come from political families or possess a pre-established public profile further highlights the barriers faced by grassroots activists and independent candidates. The reliance on financial backing and political connections reinforces the status quo, making it difficult for new voices, especially women, to emerge and make a significant impact in the political sphere. To truly address the issue of gender equality in politics, there needs to be a fundamental shift in the mindset of political parties. It’s essential for parties to not only talk about women’s empowerment but also actively promote and support women candidates, providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the political process. Creating a more inclusive and diverse political landscape is crucial for fostering genuine equality and representation in Indian politics.
Unemployment Rate (UR) in urban areas decreased from 6.8% to 6.7% during January – March 2023 to January – March 2024 for persons of age 15 years and above.
The percentage of females aged 15 and above who were unemployed in urban areas went down from 9.2% to 8.5% from January-March 2023 to January-March 2024. On the other hand, for males in urban areas, the unemployment rate increased slightly from 6% to 6.1% during the same period. These changes indicate how job opportunities for both females and males in cities have been evolving over the past few quarters. It’s important to understand the reasons behind these shifts to come up with effective strategies to support employment for everyone.
WOMEN’S COMMISSION IN INDIA
The establishment of women’s commissions in India was initially seen as a positive step towards safeguarding women’s rights and interests at both national and state levels. However, an ongoing evaluation is necessary to determine the effectiveness of these commissions in addressing the pressing issues facing women. Recent incidents of molestation and rape in Manipur have underscored the shortcomings of these commissions, revealing a concerning disregard for human dignity and rights. This emphasizes the urgent requirement for a thorough assessment of their operations and a potential overhaul to enhance their response to the significant challenges encountered by women.The effectiveness of women’s commissions is hindered by several major challenges. A primary concern is the lack of sufficient resources and autonomy. These commissions often depend heavily on government funding, which can restrict their independence and limit their capacity to operate effectively. Furthermore, political interference presents a significant obstacle. Since commission members are typically appointed by the ruling government, there may be pressure to avoid cases that could reflect poorly on government officials or their affiliations. Such interference jeopardizes the impartiality and commitment of these bodies to uphold women’s rights.
Another critical issue is the limited awareness and accessibility of women’s commissions, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many women may not know of the existence of these commissions or the support they offer, which can impede their ability to seek help in times of need.
Additionally, the response of women’s commissions to certain incidents has drawn criticism. For instance, in the case from Manipur, the National Commission for Women (NCW) faced backlash for its slow and inadequate response. Similarly, during the Mangalore pub attack incident, the NCW was criticized for its insensitive approach, with a commission member implying victim-blaming by questioning why victims did not take better precautions. Furthermore, the handling of sexual harassment allegations against a former Chief Justice of India in 2019 raised concerns regarding the NCW’s responsiveness to serious allegations. These controversies highlight the necessity for women’s commissions to be proactive, impartial, and sensitive in their approach to addressing violations of women’s rights.
POSITION OF INDIAN WOMEN IN 2025.
The under-representation of women in key decision-making roles, such as in the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of Parliament, is a significant concern. With only 16% of women members in the Lok Sabha, India falls far behind other nations like South Africa, the US, and the UK, where women’s representation is notably higher. Moreover, the inequalities faced by women extend beyond politics to economic disparities. The fact that women earn less than men in all countries, coupled with the limited rights afforded to women in India according to the 2024 Women, Business and Law index, highlights the pressing need for gender equality reforms. The low female workforce participation rate in India, standing at 37%, is also worrying for a rapidly growing economy like India. The safety of women in India is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. The alarming statistics on violence against women, with nearly a third of women experiencing physical or sexual violence, and the distressing surge in crimes against women, as reported by the National Crime Records Bureau, underscore the gravity of the situation. Despite legal changes like making rape a non-bailable offense, the challenges persist, with perpetrators often evading justice due to their connections to powerful individuals. Addressing these deep-rooted issues requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses legal reforms, social awareness, support systems for victims, and efforts to promote gender equality in all spheres of society. It’s crucial to work towards a future where women in India can enjoy equal rights, representation, safety, and opportunities for growth and empowerment.
INDIA AS THE WORLD’S LARGEST IMPORTER OF ARMS FROM 2018-2022, HAS LIKELY CONFLICTED TO CONFLICTED-RELATED SEXUAL-VIOLENCE (CRSV):
- Conflict-related Sexual Violence (CRSV): This term refers to instances of sexual violence that occur during periods of armed conflict or warfare. Unfortunately, women and girls are frequently the primary victims, enduring not only physical trauma but also enduring emotional distress, which can inflict lasting damage on their communities.
- Arms Trade Treaty: This agreement serves as a regulatory framework governing the international trade of conventional weapons. By adhering to this treaty, nations commit to considering the implications of arms transfers on human rights and to taking measures to prevent the misuse of weapons.
- UN Security Council Resolution on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS): This resolution underscores the critical importance of incorporating women’s participation in peace-building efforts and security initiatives during and after conflicts. It advocates for the protection of women’s rights and emphasizes the necessity of addressing their needs in post-conflict recovery efforts.
- Internal Conflicts: These refer to disputes or confrontations occurring within a nation, as opposed to those between different countries. An example of this type of conflict is the 2023 violence in Manipur, India.
The aforementioned terms illustrate the complexities inherent in conflicts and reinforce the imperative to safeguard individual rights while ensuring the inclusion of all stakeholders, particularly women, in efforts to restore and improve conditions following conflicts.It is noteworthy to observe the remarkable resilience of women in India as they advocate not only for their rights but also for those facing various challenges, including issues related to national identity, LGBTQI+ community persecution, and the plight of farmers and workers. Women are demonstrating their strength in diverse roles as citizens, voters, journalists, caregivers, educators, and more, creating a significant impact across multiple sectors. Movements such as #MeToo, #FreeSaudiWomen, #NiUnaMenos, and #AbortoLegalYa exemplify women leading initiatives for positive global change. The collective action of women in pursuing equality and justice for all is genuinely inspiring.
CONCLUSION
In 2025, women have a significant impact on shaping the future through their votes to drive progress. It’s essential for women to carefully analyse the available options, stand up for what they believe in, and make their voices heard. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, International Women’s Day serves as a crucial reminder for women to commit themselves to creating positive changes that lead to a healthier, safer, and more equitable world. In today’s highly polarized world, women’s votes hold immense potential in combating the escalating issues of inequality, conflict, and environmental degradation. Women play a vital role in influencing and steering positive changes that can help address these pressing global challenges and pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
As of 2025, Indian women find themselves at a crossroads. While there have been notable advancements in education, healthcare, and political representation, pervasive challenges persist. Economic disparities, unequal access to opportunities, and cultural stereotypes continue to impede their progress towards full empowerment.
[1] Gender-Based Violence
[2] (2017) 6 SCC 1 (2012)
[3] Unnao Rape Case (2017-2019)