The drafting of the Indian Constitution was not solely a male endeavor; it included the significant participation of women who advocated for a progressive and inclusive nation. Among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, 15 women contributed to shaping the legal framework of modern India.
Women in the Constituent Assembly addressed a variety of critical issues. They focused on reservations, minority rights, legislative finances, and the Uniform Civil Code. Their discussions highlighted the importance of economic, social, and political equality for all citizens.
Interestingly, not all women in the Assembly supported the idea of reservations for women in legislative bodies. For example, Hansa Jivraj Mehta was against women's reservations, advocating instead for social justice without the need for quotas.
Women like Dakshayani Velayudhan and Begum Aizaz Rasul argued against reservations and separate electorates for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. They believed such measures could create a division between minorities and the majority, undermining integration.
These women brought invaluable perspectives to the debates, shaped by their diverse backgrounds and experiences with challenges such as patriarchy, caste oppression, and child marriage. Their insights were crucial in advocating for an India that ensures justice and equality.
The involvement of these women not only ensured that the Indian Constitution reflected both genders but also laid the groundwork for a society that values equality, justice, and inclusivity. Their contributions have had a lasting impact on India's legislative and social framework.
Q1. How many women participated in the Constituent Assembly?
Answer: There were 15 women among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly who significantly influenced the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
Q2. What issues did women advocate for in the Assembly?
Answer: Women focused on various topics including reservations, minority rights, legislative finances, and the Uniform Civil Code, promoting equality for all.
Q3. Did all women support reservations for women?
Answer: No, not all women supported reservations. Hansa Jivraj Mehta, for instance, argued against them, advocating for justice without quotas.
Q4. What was Dakshayani Velayudhan's view on reservations?
Answer: Dakshayani Velayudhan opposed reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, believing they could create divisions among communities.
Q5. How did women's contributions affect the Constitution?
Answer: Their participation ensured that the Constitution embraced gender equality and inclusivity, influencing India's social and legislative landscape for generations.
Question 1: How many women were part of the Constituent Assembly?
A) 10
B) 15
C) 20
D) 25
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who presented the first national flag in the Constituent Assembly?
A) Dakshayani Velayudhan
B) Amrit Kaur
C) Hansa Jivraj Mehta
D) Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What was the stance of Begum Aizaz Rasul on reservations?
A) Supported reservations
B) Opposed reservations
C) Neutral
D) Advocated for communal reservations
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which Article abolishes untouchability?
A) Article 16
B) Article 17
C) Article 18
D) Article 19
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What did Ammu Swaminathan advocate for?
A) Reservations for women
B) Removal of untouchability
C) Economic quotas
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B
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