Women Leaders Behind India's Constitution: Unsung Heroes Of 1947

The drafting of the Indian Constitution is often remembered as a monumental achievement in the history of independent India. While many recognize the contributions of eminent male leaders, the role of women in shaping the Constitution often goes uncelebrated. Among the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, 15 were women, each bringing unique perspectives and fighting for the inclusion of progressive values that laid the foundation for gender equality in India. Recently, on Constitution Day (November 26), President Droupadi Murmu recognized the role that women played in the Constituent Assembly, the body tasked with developing India's independence constitution. The 299-member Assembly included 15 women, including notable luminaries like Sarojini Naidu, Sucheta Kripalani, and Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit. However, it also featured lesser-known women from various backgrounds who took part in discussions about gender, caste, and reservations. This article recalls the inspiring stories of these women and their contributions to the making of the Constitution.

Women who played a crucial role in drafting the Constitution

Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978)

Ammu Swaminathan was a prominent figure in India's freedom struggle and a key member of the Constituent Assembly. She played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights and social justice within the Indian Constitution. Swaminathan ran for the Central Legislative Assembly on a Congress ticket from Madras in 1945 and later became a member of the Constituent Assembly. She discussed the Hindu Code Bill and its implications for gender equality. She actively participated in the drafting of fundamental rights and directive principles, ensuring that the Constitution addressed issues like gender equality and social reforms. Her efforts contributed significantly to the progressive and inclusive nature of the Indian Constitution. Following independence, she was elected to the Lok Sabha from Dindigul, Tamil Nadu.

Annie Mascarane (1902-1963)

Annie Mascarane was born in Thiruvananthapuram to a Latin Christian family that was believed to be at the bottom of the caste hierarchy. During that time lower-caste Ezhavas, Christians, and Muslims were unable to vote in the local legislature at the time. Mascarene vigorously advocated for a government based on a universal adult franchise while being targeted by her political adversaries. She played a significant role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution as a member of the Constituent Assembly. She actively participated in the debates and discussions surrounding the Hindu Code Bill, advocating for women's rights and social reforms. She addressed the Christian minority라이브 바카라 concerns and ensured their rights were protected and also highlighted the need for industrialization and infrastructural development, particularly in maritime regions. Her contributions helped shape the legal framework for women's rights in India.

Qudsia Begum Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001)

Qudsia Begum Aizaz Rasul was the only Muslim woman member of the Constituent Assembly of India. She played a crucial role in drafting the Indian Constitution, particularly in advocating for the rights of minorities and women. Qudsia and her husband decided to enter politics in 1936. Despite being a member of the Muslim League, she was one of the few who opposed separate electorates based on religion. Her thoughts on the concept of Pakistan were more nuanced. She believed it would aid Muslims but may also harm poor Muslims in India after a partition. She was instrumental in creating a consensus among Muslims to voluntarily give up separate electorates and reservations in legislatures for the sake of a united India. Her support for the removal of separate electorates and reservations for minorities was a significant step towards building a secular and inclusive India.

Dakshyani Velayudhan (1912-1978)

Dakshyani Velayudhan played a significant role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution as a member of the Constituent Assembly. She was the first and only Scheduled Caste woman elected to this body, representing the Madras constituency. During her time in the Assembly, Velayudhan actively participated in debates, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Velayudhan achieved multiple firsts, including becoming the first Dalit woman to graduate in science in Cochin (now Kochi) and the first Dalit woman to serve on the Cochin Legislative Council. She particularly focused on issues related to education and the social upliftment of Scheduled Castes. While aligning with B.R. Ambedkar on many issues, she also emphasized the need for decentralization and a more balanced approach to governance.

Renuka Ray (1904-1997)

Renuka Ray라이브 바카라 work in the Constituent Assembly revolved around social welfare, particularly for marginalized communities. As a member of the All India Women라이브 바카라 Conference, she was deeply committed to improving the status of women and children in society. Her advocacy for equal inheritance rights for women was a milestone in the journey toward gender equality. She was a strong proponent of a uniform civil code and fought for the inclusion of provisions that would ensure gender equality and social justice. Her contributions to the Constitution have had a lasting impact on the lives of women in India.

Sarojini Naidu (1879-1949)

Sarojini Naidu, a prominent figure in India's freedom struggle, played a significant role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. As a member of the Constituent Assembly, she actively participated in the debates and deliberations, advocating for a constitution that upheld the principles of equality, justice, and freedom. Naidu's contributions were particularly notable in emphasizing the importance of women's rights and ensuring their inclusion in the constitutional framework.

As we recall the stories of these remarkable women, it is essential to recognize their invaluable contributions to the making of modern India. Their legacy is a reminder that the fight for equality and justice is a continuous journey. Honouring their memory is not just about acknowledging the past but also about committing to the principles they stood for: equality, inclusivity, and justice for all.

Follow 바카라 Experiences:

| | |