Q18. The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th-century social reform movement. What are the major issues and debates concerning women in that period?

Model Answer:

Introduction

The emergence of women's questions in modern India during the 19th century was closely tied to the broader social reform movement. This period witnessed significant discussions and debates concerning women's rights, roles, and societal status, driven by various reformers, intellectuals, and activists. Here are some of the major issues and debates concerning women in that period:

Body

Education and Enlightenment:

• Access to Education: One of the foremost issues was advocating for women's education. Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar emphasised the importance of educating women as a means to uplift society. The establishment of schools for girls, although limited, marked the beginning of women's education in India.
• Debates on Curriculum: There were discussions on what should be included in the curriculum for girls. While some advocated for traditional subjects, others pushed for modern sciences and languages, aiming to empower women to contribute meaningfully to society.

Social and Legal Reforms:

• Sati Abolition: The practice of Sati (the self-immolation of widows on their husband’s funeral pyre) was a major issue. Reformers campaigned against this practice, leading to its prohibition in 1829 by Lord William Bentinck. This marked a significant step in addressing women's rights and safety.
• Widow Remarriage: The issue of widow remarriage also gained prominence, with activists advocating for the rights of widows to remarry and live with dignity. The Widow Remarriage Act of 1856 was a critical reform, though it faced significant opposition from conservative sections of society.

Gender and Marriage:

• Child Marriage: The prevalence of child marriage was a significant concern, with reformers advocating for raising the legal age of marriage. This was aimed at promoting women's health and well-being, as early marriages often resulted in health complications and limited opportunities for education.
• Dowry System: The dowry system emerged as a contentious issue, leading to debates about its implications for women's status. Reformers criticised dowry as a social evil, advocating for its abolition and emphasising the need for a more equitable approach to marriage.

Women's Rights and Identity:

• Emergence of Feminist Voices: The 19th century saw the emergence of early feminist voices advocating for women's rights and autonomy. Figures like Begum Roquiah Sakhawat Hossain and Sarojini Naidu spoke about women's empowerment and the need for gender equality.
• Cultural Critiques: Intellectual debates often focused on women's roles in society and the need for cultural change. Many reformers argued that improving women's status would lead to a stronger society and nation, challenging traditional notions of gender roles.

 Political Participation:

• Involvement in Social Reform: Women began participating in social reform movements, advocating for their rights and engaging in public life. Organisations like the Women's Indian Association, founded in the early 20th century, began mobilising women for social and political causes.
• Impact of Nationalism: The struggle for independence also influenced the women’s question. Nationalist leaders recognized women's contributions and called for their involvement in the freedom movement, furthering discussions about their rights and roles in society.

‍Conclusion

‍The 19th-century social reform movement in India catalysed significant debates surrounding women's issues, encompassing education, legal reforms, marriage practices, and women's rights. This period marked the beginning of organised efforts to address the inequalities faced by women, laying the groundwork for subsequent movements in the 20th century.

‍

Instant Mains Evaluation with SuperKalam

✅ Now that you have gone through the model answer, try practicing and writing it in your own words and evaluate it instantly with SuperKalam here - Evaluate Mains Answer instantly