The progress of civilizations in different parts of the world has taken a definite shape, with certain common institutions emerging across cultures and historical periods. Patriarchy is one such institution that has been deeply entrenched in societies worldwide, including India. In patriarchal societies, the distinction between the ‘public’ and ‘private’ spheres for women is rigidly defined, with various boundaries imposed. These boundaries determine the extent of women’s freedoms and significantly impact their life chances in areas such as health, education, and employment. Societal norms and values often justify these restrictions in the name of preserving patriarchy. The most powerful among these values is the perceived right to make decisions that shape not only the lives but also the desires of women, reinforcing the notion that control over their bodies and choices rests with men.
The power embedded in gender difference has profoundly influenced societal structures, leading to an equilibrium where patriarchal norms and values are mistakenly perceived as fundamental to social stability. This justification is often couched in terms of the functionality of social institutions. Extensive writings on morality have further reinforced these gendered hierarchies, often serving as philosophical validations of existing power structures rather than genuine inquiries into ethical fairness. Many apologist philosophers have rationalized the subjugation of women under the guise of moral or social order, while religious institutions have played a significant role in perpetuating these structures.
Patriarchy not only governs women’s bodies but also dictates broader societal dynamics. Various theories attempt to explain its origins, some more convincing than others. However, the key to women’s emancipation does not lie in antiquated theories but in contemporary realities. The concept of ‘modernity,’ which was once celebrated for its promise of rational progress, has not necessarily dismantled patriarchal structures. Instead, the materialist orientation of modernity has led to further objectification of women, a trend exacerbated by capitalism.
Globalization, as the most advanced form of capitalism, has transformed political and social landscapes, redefining concepts such as nation-state and citizenship. It has also altered the status of women in society, commodifying emotions and relationships. Love, for example, is now easily accessible, marketed, and exchanged as a commodity, making it more appealing yet more transactional. The so-called ‘religion of consumerism’ has reshaped social perceptions of women, exposing the inherent contradictions within the Enlightenment ideals that once promised equality and rational progress.
The ideological basis of female oppression remains obscured for the masses due to widespread societal justifications. The creation of ‘pink-collar jobs’—which are often lower-paid and gender-segregated—reinforces existing inequalities under the pretext of biological and social norms. Sexual harassment is pervasive, and judicial insensitivity toward gender issues (as seen in pre-Mathura case rulings) has further discouraged women from seeking justice. A significant proportion of reported rapes involve perpetrators known to the victims, highlighting the oppressive role of familial and community structures in perpetuating gender-based violence.
The December 16, 2012, gang rape incident in Delhi prompted widespread outrage, leading to calls for gender-sensitive education, moral value inculcation, better policing, amendments in criminal procedure laws, police reforms, special police forces for women, and broader empowerment initiatives. While some measures were implemented, fundamental structural changes remained unaddressed, and crime rates against women have not shown significant improvement.
Value inculcation must take place within families, educational institutions, and society at large, especially in response to the emergence of new forms of gender-based crimes. However, external conditions must also be made conducive to meaningful change. Issues such as poverty, hunger, unemployment, corruption, the rise of the middle class, and technological advancements all have gendered dimensions and must be analyzed holistically. The prevailing notion of women’s empowerment must also be re-evaluated to encompass comprehensive, rather than isolated, economic or social empowerment.
Superficial measures taken to pacify protestors and media outrage will not yield lasting solutions. The need of the hour is a gender-sensitive state committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all genders. Reforms across sectors—including policies such as granting subsidies in the name of female heads of households—can contribute to changing societal mindsets and fostering long-term gender equality. Every small step in this direction brings us closer to achieving a more just society, where the long-standing dream of gender equality is finally realized.
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