What are the Constitutional guarantees given to women? Explain the role of the National Commission for…

Question

What are the Constitutional guarantees given to women? Explain the role of the National Commission for Women in protecting the rights of the women.

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

The Constitution guarantees women equality and non-discrimination (Articles 14, 15(1), 16), special provisions (Article 15(3)), equal pay and maternity relief (Articles 39, 42) and a duty to respect their dignity (Article 51A(e)). The NCW (National Commission for Women Act, 1990) monitors these safeguards, redresses complaints and recommends legal reforms.

**Introduction**

India’s Constitution enshrines women’s rights through equality, welfare, and protection, while the National Commission for Women⟦1⟧ (NCW) safeguards these rights via monitoring, legal intervention, and advocacy. These constitutional guarantees⟦2⟧ reflect India’s commitment to gender justice and social inclusion.

**Constitutional Guarantees**

2. **Directive Principles and Duties**: Articles 39(a), 39(d), and 42 promote equal pay, just working conditions, and maternity benefits; Article 51A(e) imposes a duty to respect women’s dignity, fostering societal change against gender bias.

3. **Right to Education and Health**: Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education for all children, including girls, while other provisions emphasize women’s health and nutrition, essential for their empowerment and socio-economic development.

**Role of National Commission for Women**

1. **Monitoring and Legal Redressal**: NCW, established under the 1990 Act, monitors constitutional safeguards, addresses complaints on violence and harassment, and pursues compliance with landmark standards such as the Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan⟦3⟧ (1997) guidelines against workplace sexual harassment, later codified in the POSH Act, 2013.

2. **Awareness and Support Services**: NCW promotes schemes like One Stop Centres, Women Helpline (181), and Swadhar Greh, and collaborates with state bodies including ==Andhra Pradesh== to enhance outreach. It also conducts legal awareness camps and campaigns against female foeticide and child marriage.

**Way Forward**

1. **Constitutional Status for NCW**: Granting constitutional status would empower NCW with autonomy, civil court powers, and enforceability, enabling stronger protection of women’s rights.

2. **Strengthen State Coordination**: Enhanced collaboration with state commissions will improve localized and culturally sensitive implementation of women’s welfare policies.

**Conclusion**

NCW’s role is crucial in translating constitutional guarantees into effective protection and empowerment of women, ensuring justice and equality in practice.

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