Publisher's Synopsis
The origin of the Indian idea of appropriate female behaviour can be traced to Manu
in 200 BC: "by a young girl, by a young woman, or even by an aged one, nothing must be
done independent, even in her own house". In spite of India's reputation for respecting
women, including treating her as a Goddess, history tells us that women were also ill-treated.
There was no equality between men and women. This is true of ancient, medieval and early
modern times barring some revolutionary movements such as that of Basaweshwara, the 12th
century philosopher in Karnataka, who advocated equality, casteless society, status for
women, and betterment of the downtrodden. Certain broad circumstances in which Indian
women live affect the way they participate in the economy. A common denominator in their
lives is that they are generally confined to home, with restricted mobility, and in seclusion.
Other, unwritten, hierarchical practices place further constraints on women. They are, by and
large, excluded from political life, which by its very nature takes place in a public forum.
Reform movements in the 19th and 20th centuries led by great social reformers
provided boost to women's legal status in India. Independence of India heralded the
introduction of laws relating to women. The Constitution provided equality to men and
women and also gave special protection to women to realize their interests effectively.
Special laws were enacted to prevent indecent representation of women in the media and
sexual harassment in workplaces. The law also gives women equal rights in the matter of
adoption, maternity benefits, equal pay, good working conditions etc.
