Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Challenges to women empowerment; Women Representation in Politics;
Why in the News?
The 267th Law Commission Report that was recently released, recommended including “hate speech” within the Indian Penal Code, indicating a governmental acknowledgment of the need to address this pervasive issue.
- This has reignited conversations about the legal framework surrounding hate speech, particularly against women in politics.
Key Highlights made by the 267th Law Commission Report:
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What factors contribute to the normalization of hate speech against women in politics?
- Cultural Attitudes: Misogynistic remarks are often rooted in deep-seated cultural attitudes that devalue women, reflecting a broader societal acceptance of gender discrimination and objectification.
- Political Discourse: Political speeches frequently employ derogatory language towards women, which normalizes such behaviour and diminishes the seriousness of misogyny in public life.
- Lack of Accountability: Political parties often distance themselves from offensive remarks only after public backlash, leading to a culture where such comments are tolerated until they provoke outrage.
| Note: The word “misogyny” comes from Greek roots: “misein,” which means “to hate,” and “gyne,” which means “woman.” Misogyny can show up in various ways, such as male privilege, discrimination against women, sexual harassment, insulting or demeaning women, violence, and treating women as objects. |
How does hate speech impact women’s participation in politics?
- Discouragement and Marginalization: Hate speech creates an intimidating environment for women, discouraging them from participating in politics and undermining their credibility as leaders.
- Social Isolation: The prevalence of hostile commentary can isolate women politicians, making it difficult for them to connect with constituents and build supportive networks.
- Psychological Effects: Constant exposure to misogynistic remarks can lead to emotional distress, affecting women’s confidence and willingness to engage in political activities.
How are Panchayats playing a good field in building awareness?
- Women Representation: Nearly 20 states have achieved 50% representation of women in Panchayati Raj institutions, fostering an environment where women’s voices are amplified in local governance.
- Empowerment Initiatives: There has been an emergence of all-women panchayats like ‘Manje Rai Panchayat’ in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and ‘Kultikri Gram Panchayat’ under Jhargram sub-division in West Bengal.
- For example, the political women leaders like Mamta Devi exemplify effective governance by addressing infrastructure, and livelihood issues, and mobilizing women within their communities.
What are the key recommendations from the Global Gender Gap 2023 Report?
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Enact comprehensive hate speech laws that explicitly address gender-based discrimination and ensure accountability for misogynistic remarks in politics, alongside implementing the recommendations of the 267th Law Commission Report.
- Promote Women-Centric Governance: Encourage greater representation of women in all levels of governance, drawing inspiration from successful initiatives in Panchayati Raj institutions, while supporting leadership training and public awareness campaigns to combat societal biases.
Mains PYQ:
Q “Though women in post-independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and the feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (UPSC IAS/2021)
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