Chief Justice of India Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, speaking at the 'She Shakti' event organised by News18, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in institutional structures, particularly in supporting women in making choices that may challenge societal norms. He highlighted that the Constitution guarantees freedom for both conventional and unconventional decisions, and what is deemed unconventional today may not be so tomorrow.
In his keynote on 'Equality, Justice, Empowerment,' he acknowledged the irony of a man delivering a speech at a women-centered event, stressing that women's issues are societal issues and should not be discussed in isolation. Equal participation of women in leadership and governance leads to better developmental outcomes, and failing to remove barriers for women hinders societal progress. The CJI underscored that the unique perspectives women bring to the table are invaluable.
He referred to the contributions of Hansa Mehta, a key figure in drafting the Indian Women's Charter of Rights in 1946 and influencing global human rights through the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Mehta’s vision reshaped public life for Indian women and her Charter laid the groundwork for many rights and policies still relevant today.
CJI Chandrachud lamented that pre-independence hopes for women’s economic participation remain unmet, citing their underrepresentation in the workforce and the persistent burden of domestic labor. However, he noted that gender disparity in employment is gradually decreasing.
He also stressed that gender equality cannot be measured solely by statistics but must account for women's lived experiences, including those of marginalized groups. Women's contributions are often overlooked, as seen in examples from sports, where female achievements are overshadowed by male counterparts, a phenomenon known as 'male default.' Institutions often fail to accommodate women fully, leading to high attrition and professional stagnation for women.
CJI concluded by urging institutions to challenge this male default and prioritize inclusivity, emphasising that true equality requires changing mindsets, not just enacting laws. He highlighted that while laws are essential for social change, they must be supported by shifts in societal attitudes to create a just and equal society.
