07/03/2025
The Indian National Congress (INC) has played a significant role in the upliftment of women in India through various policies, legislations, and initiatives. Here are some of its key contributions:
1. Role in Women’s Empowerment During Freedom Struggle
Encouraged women leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Annie Besant, and Aruna Asaf Ali to participate in politics.
Supported women’s education and voting rights in pre-independence India.
2. Legal and Social Reforms Post-Independence
Hindu Code Bills (1950s): Under Jawaharlal Nehru, Congress introduced laws ensuring women’s rights in marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
Dowry Prohibition Act (1961): Made dowry illegal to curb the exploitation of women.
Equal Remuneration Act (1976): Ensured equal pay for men and women.
Reservation in Local Bodies (1992): The 73rd and 74th Amendments (under P.V. Narasimha Rao) gave 33% reservation to women in Panchayati Raj Institutions.
3. Women-Focused Policies
Indira Gandhi’s Leadership: First female Prime Minister of India
