Gandhian Perspective on Women’s Role in India—With Special Reference to Fundamental Duties

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter focuses upon views of Gandhi in his observation of the social position of women in society. It highlights the general views of Gandhi on modern civilisation which will be followed by his views on women in society. The chapter also explores the relationship with his wife, Kasturba, to understand his views on the role of women in a family. For example he criticised modern civilisation in his book titled ‘Hind Swaraj’ where he defined true swaraj by saying that ‘if we (individuals) become free, India would be free’. It is in the same vein that he opines, ‘it is swaraj when we learn to rule ourselves’. It was Gandhiji’s anticipation and apprehensions of modern civilisation which primarily enhanced his status as a prominent thinker. This chapter will explore his views on modern civilisation in relation to his definition of gender roles within Indian society. The chapter also throws light on his theory of Brahmacharya and the rationale of his outlook towards the same. It is a critical appreciation of Gandhian thought on women’s rights and duties in the context of Article 51-A (e) in the Indian Constitution, i.e. ‘to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women’. The chapter seeks to answer the question of whether his thinking on women’s rights and duties stands through the test of time.KeywordsGandhian philosophyLawWomen’s statusFundamental dutiesRightsAccess to justice