Question

Discuss any eight features of the Towards Equality Report of 1974.

Answer 1

1. It laid the foundation of the women’s movement in independent India.
2. It highlighted the non-implementation of the constitutional guarantee of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
3. It focused on the discriminatory socio-cultural practices or political and economic processes.
4. It drew attention to the deteriorating condition of women since 1911, especially amongst the Dalits and the poor.
5. It raised the issue widening gender disparities in all aspects of life e.g. employment, health, education, political participation.
6. It prohibited discrimination against women in workplaces.
7. It brought to light the issue of declining sex ratio i.e., the ‘missing women’.
8. It exposed overall inferior position of women vis-à-vis men.
9. It highlighted domestic violence in the form of torture, abuse, and humiliation.
10. It brought to light dowry harassment, often leading to the deaths of married women.
11. It highlighted the need to examine the present law against dowry.
12. It suggested that the loopholes in the law be fixed.