Constitutional and Legislative Provisions for Women’s Empowerment in India: An Analytical Study

Abstract

Women’s empowerment has become one of the most pressing issues of modern India, directly linked to social justice, equality and inclusive development. In the Indian context, constitutional and legislative frameworks have laid a robust foundation for addressing gender inequality, combating discrimination and ensuring women’s participation in every sphere of life. This paper explores the constitutional provisions under Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy and Fundamental Duties that aim at promoting gender equity. It further examines legislative measures such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 and amendments to the Indian Penal Code, which collectively safeguard women’s dignity, liberty and equal opportunities. Special initiatives like the National Commission for Women (1992), the National Policy for the Empowerment of Women (2001) and reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions highlight affirmative action strategies for political and socio-economic participation. Despite significant legal progress, challenges of patriarchal mindsets, poor implementation and lack of legal literacy persist.  This study concludes that strengthening awareness, enhancing institutional capacity and bridging the gap between law and practice are vital for transforming constitutional ideals into lived realities of empowerment for Indian women.