Preamble of the Constitution:
Women granted equal rights to participate effectively in the country’s administration.
Equality Before Law:
- Article 14 emphasizes equality before the law and equal protection.
- Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Protection from Discrimination:
- Article 15(1) and (2) prevents state discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Article 15(3) allows for special provisions protecting women and children.
- Article 15(4) enables the state to create arrangements for socially and educationally backward classes.
Equality of Opportunity:
- Article 16 ensures equality of opportunity in matters of employment under the State.
- Article 39 advocates equal rights to livelihood and equal pay for equal work for both men and women.
- Article 39A promotes justice and humane work conditions, including maternity relief.
Fundamental Duty:
- Article 51A (e) urges citizens to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
Reservation in Panchayats and Municipalities:
- Article 243D(3) and Article 243T(3) reserve at least one-third of seats in Panchayats and Municipalities for women, rotated across constituencies.
- Article 243D(4) and 243T(4) reserve not less than one-third of the chairperson positions for women.
Voting Rights/Electoral Law:
- Mandates not less than one-third reservation for women in Panchayat seats.
- Reserves the office of the chairperson in Panchayats for SCs, STs, and women as per state legislation.
- Provides reservation for women in Municipalities.
Legislative Measures for Women’s Rights:
- State-enacted measures to uphold equal rights and counter social discrimination.
- Addressing various forms of violence and atrocities against women.
- Providing support services, particularly for working women.
Crimes Against Women:
- Crimes specifically targeting women classified under this category.
- Encompasses legislative measures to combat and address crimes directed at women.
