Pioneering Women of the Indian Constitution

The Role of Women in the Constituent Assembly

The drafting of the Indian Constitution was a monumental task that involved diverse perspectives, including those of women. Among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, 15 women contributed significantly to shaping the future of India. Their efforts were essential in advocating for a progressive and inclusive nation.

Key Issues Advocated by Women Members

The women in the Constituent Assembly focused on various critical issues, including:

• Reservations for women and marginalized groups
• Minority rights and protections
• Legislative finances
• The Uniform Civil Code, promoting social and political equality

Perspectives on Reservations

While some women supported reservations, not all agreed. For instance, Hansa Jivraj Mehta opposed reserved seats for women, arguing for justice without quotas. In contrast, Dakshayani Velayudhan and Begum Aizaz Rasul also voiced concerns against reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, believing such measures could foster divisions.

Diverse Contributions

The unique backgrounds of these women enriched their contributions to the debates. They brought forth issues related to patriarchy and caste oppression, advocating for equality and justice in their discussions.

Notable Women Members and Their Contributions

Several women members left a lasting impact on the Constituent Assembly:

• Annie Mascarene: Advocated for the centralization of power.
• Hansa Jivraj Mehta: Presented the national flag and argued against women’s reservations.
• Dakshayani Velayudhan: Advocated against untouchability and supported Article 17.
• Amrit Kaur: Championed universal adult franchise and secular values.
• Ammu Swaminathan: Supported adult franchise and the removal of untouchability.
• Durgabai Deshmukh: Focused on judicial matters and social welfare.
• Begum Aizaz Rasul: Advocated for minority rights while opposing reservations based on communal lines.
• Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit: Emphasized India's responsibilities towards its citizens and international relations post-independence.

Broader Impact of Women’s Participation

The active involvement of women in the Constituent Assembly ensured that the Indian Constitution embodied the viewpoints of both genders. Their participation laid the groundwork for a society that values equality, justice, and inclusivity. This influence has shaped India’s legislative and social landscape for generations, highlighting the importance of diverse representation in governance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How many women were part of the Constituent Assembly that drafted the Indian Constitution?
Answer: There were 15 women among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, contributing significantly to its formation.

Q2. What key issues did women members advocate for during the drafting of the Constitution?
Answer: Women members focused on reservations, minority rights, legislative finances, and the Uniform Civil Code, emphasizing equality in the social and political realms.

Q3. Did all women members support reservations for women?
Answer: No, not all supported reservations. Hansa Jivraj Mehta, for instance, argued against reserved seats, advocating for justice without quotas.

Q4. What was the stance of Dakshayani Velayudhan on reservations?
Answer: Dakshayani Velayudhan opposed reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, believing they could further divide communities.

Q5. How did the participation of women influence the Indian Constitution?
Answer: Their involvement ensured that the Constitution reflected diverse perspectives, laying a foundation for equality, justice, and inclusivity in Indian society.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: How many women were part of the Constituent Assembly?
A) 10
B) 15
C) 20
D) 5
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which member opposed reservations for women?
A) Dakshayani Velayudhan
B) Hansa Jivraj Mehta
C) Amrit Kaur
D) Ammu Swaminathan
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What did Dakshayani Velayudhan advocate for?
A) Reservations for minorities
B) Opposition to untouchability
C) Women's reservations
D) Centralization of power
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Who supported universal adult franchise?
A) Hansa Jivraj Mehta
B) Amrit Kaur
C) Durgabai Deshmukh
D) Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
Correct Answer: B