Throughout
history, women have faced significant barriers in accessing education and
pursuing careers in science and academia. However, Indian society has long
demonstrated progressive elements in empowering women. India has witnessed
women rulers and administrators who excelled in leadership roles, challenging
traditional gender norms. While the struggle for gender equality has been
largely driven by women, the role of progressive men in championing their cause
cannot be overlooked. Even in a patriarchal society, certain men have actively
sought change, playing a pivotal role in helping women overcome social stigmas
and enter science, education, and leadership roles.
Women’s
empowerment entails granting women autonomy over their lives, enabling
independent decision-making, and ensuring equitable access to opportunities in
education, employment, and leadership. It also involves dismantling societal
structures that sustain gender discrimination. While numerous initiatives have
been undertaken to empower women, true transformation requires the active
involvement and support of men. As fathers, brothers, husbands, and colleagues,
men play a crucial role in fostering a gender-equitable society.
Historical
Contributions of Men to Women’s Empowerment
In
the 19th and early 20th centuries, Indian society largely confined women to
domestic roles, barring them from formal education. However, progressive men
contested these traditional gender roles within families and communities.
Indian society has long imposed rigid roles on men and women—men as providers
and women as caregivers. This has restricted women’s economic and social
autonomy. When men advocate for shared domestic responsibilities and support
women’s aspirations, they help break these stereotypes. Household tasks,
child-rearing, and caregiving should not be seen as solely a woman’s duty but
rather as a collective responsibility. This shift in perspective fosters a
fairer society where women are not burdened by unpaid labor that impedes their
personal and professional growth.
Social
reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Jyotirao Phule, Mahatma Gandhi, and
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan played a crucial role in promoting women’s
education and encouraging them to break free from traditional constraints.
Post-independence, India witnessed a steady transformation in women's
participation in science and academia, thanks to policies promoting education
and encouragement from male mentors and policymakers.
Education:
A Fundamental Tool for Empowerment
Education
remains the foundation of empowerment. Despite significant progress, many
Indian girls still face obstacles in accessing quality education due to
financial constraints, societal biases, and safety concerns, particularly when
studying away from home. Men—especially fathers and brothers—can play a
transformative role by supporting their daughters' and sisters' education and
ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to achieve their
dreams.
Workplace
Equality and Male Allyship
In
the workplace, male colleagues and leaders can foster a culture of inclusivity
by advocating for equal pay, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for
women. Gender biases in hiring, promotions, and salary negotiations remain
common barriers to women's professional growth. This disparity is particularly
evident in the film industry, where male actors are often paid significantly
more than their female counterparts. Men who actively challenge such biases and
support workplace diversity contribute to a more just and progressive
professional environment.
Addressing
Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based
violence remains one of the most pressing challenges hindering women’s
empowerment in India. From domestic abuse to workplace harassment and public
safety concerns, women face numerous threats to their well-being. Addressing
this issue is not solely the responsibility of women. Men must take a stand
against all forms of violence and discrimination by calling out inappropriate behavior,
educating themselves and others about consent and respect, and supporting
survivors.
Male-led
initiatives, such as community awareness programs and self-defense training for
women, have proven effective in creating safer environments. Moreover, engaging
boys from a young age in discussions about gender equality and respect for
women can help prevent the perpetuation of toxic masculinity and gender-based
violence.
Political
and Social Advocacy for Women’s Rights
For
systemic change to occur, men must actively participate in political and social
advocacy for women's rights. Laws and policies designed to uplift women, such
as the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme, maternity benefits, and anti-harassment
laws, require strong male allies in legislative and administrative roles. Male
politicians, policymakers, and community leaders must champion these
initiatives and work towards their effective implementation.
Similarly,
in social movements, men can amplify women’s voices rather than speaking over
them. Supporting women-led organizations, participating in gender equality
campaigns, and using their influence to advocate for equitable policies
contribute to a more inclusive society.
Changing
Cultural Narratives
Cultural
narratives propagated through films, literature, and media significantly
influence public perceptions of gender roles. Indian cinema, for instance, has
long reinforced stereotypes portraying women as submissive and men as dominant.
However, a positive shift towards progressive storytelling is emerging, and men
in the entertainment industry have a responsibility to support narratives that
promote gender equality.
Parents,
educators, and influencers must also ensure that young boys grow up with a
mindset that respects and values women as equals. The language used at home,
the division of responsibilities, and the representation of gender roles in
children’s literature and media all contribute to shaping attitudes from an
early age.
Conclusion
Women’s empowerment is not a battle for women alone; it is a societal responsibility that requires the collective efforts of both men and women. When men actively support gender equality in education, workplaces, and communities, they contribute to a more just and progressive society. Breaking down entrenched biases, promoting inclusive policies, and fostering cultural change will help build a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality. The true measure of a society’s progress lies in how it uplifts and empowers all its members, irrespective of gender.
Dr.
Biju Dharmapalan
(Dr.
Biju Dharmapalan is the Dean-Academic Affairs, Garden City University,
& Adjunct faculty, National
Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore)
