• Dr. Ratna N. Pandey

Introduction

One of the greatest nation-builders of contemporary India is Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, also referred to as Babasaheb Ambedkar. Even though he is often regarded as the primary creator of the Indian Constitution, his influence goes much beyond social justice and constitutional law. Long before India started having formal conversations about feminism, Dr. Ambedkar was also one of the country’s first and most ardent supporters of women’s rights. He believed that without the liberty of women, society could not be fully liberated. The groundwork for gender equality in contemporary India was established by his writings, lectures, reforms, and legislative struggles. As a result, he is deserving of being acknowledged as the founder of Indian feminism as well as the Indian Constitution.

Dr. Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, into a Mahar family that was socially marginalised. He was subjected to harsh prejudice from an early age. He was denied access to drinking water, schooling, and even the most fundamental human rights that others had. Nonetheless, these humiliations strengthened his resolve to fight for justice for all marginalised groups in society, including women. Because of his intellectual prowess, he attended Columbia University and the London School of Economics, where he was exposed to international discussions on equality, democracy, and human rights. His conviction that education, equal opportunity, and individual dignity must be the cornerstones of social reform was reinforced by this encounter.

The Indian Constitution’s Founder: Advocate for Equality

Upon India’s attainment of independence, Ambedkar was designated as the Chairman of the Draughting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. His contribution to the Constitution transcended mere technicality; it was profoundly moral, philosophical, and transformative. He engaged resolutely in the pursuit of establishing a newly formed republic that would uphold justice for all citizens, irrespective of caste, gender, class, or creed.

Among his most significant contributions are:

1. Fundamental Rights

Ambedkar worked to have the Constitution guarantee basic human rights including equality, liberty, and dignity. Articles 14, 15, and 16 were groundbreaking in their support of women’s empowerment since they forbade discrimination based on gender, caste, or religion and guaranteed equal opportunity in public work.

2. Abolition of Untouchability

All types of untouchability were outlawed under Article 17. Ambedkar considered caste and patriarchy as intertwined repressive institutions and felt that social equality was a prerequisite for gender equality.

3. Directive Principles of State Policy

Ambedkar mandated state responsibility for enhancing women’s conditions via maternity relief, equal pay for equal work, and safeguards against exploitation.

4. Reforms in Personal Laws

The Hindu Code Bill, a comprehensive reform for women’s property rights, divorce, guardianship, and inheritance, was arguably his most valiant fight. Despite fierce resistance to the measure, Ambedkar’s work set the stage for later gender-just legislation. Ambedkar built a contemporary India through the Constitution that is based on liberty, equality, and fraternity—values that are representative of both the democratic spirit and feminist principles.

The Father of Feminism: Ambedkar

Although India frequently identifies feminism with the international movements of the West, Dr. Ambedkar actually introduced feminist ideas and practices to India decades before these movements were well-known throughout the globe. His strategy for women’s rights was legal, structural, and firmly anchored in social fairness; it was not only symbolic.

1.Feminism via Social Change

Ambedkar posited that caste and patriarchy exist in a state of mutual dependence. The persistence of the caste system can be attributed to the rigorous regulation of women, particularly concerning their freedom of movement, sexual autonomy, and decision-making capabilities. He posited that the domination of women was crucial for the preservation of caste purity. In his essay “Castes in India: Their Mechanism, Genesis and Development,” Ambedkar articulately demonstrated that the subjugation of women served as the cornerstone of the caste system. This nuanced comprehension positions him well in advance of his era, long before the notion of “intersectionality” emerged as a pivotal element in feminist discussions.

2. Education as a Means of Emancipation

Ambedkar asserted that the liberation of women is inextricably linked to the pursuit of education. His renowned slogan “Educate, Agitate, Organize” was aimed equally at women, encouraging them to enter the public sphere with assurance. He advocated for women’s participation in social and political movements, urging them to assume leadership roles.

3.The Mahad Satyagraha and its Implications for Women

In the year 1927, the Mahad Satyagraha witnessed the active participation of thousands of women, who boldly challenged the constraints imposed by upper-caste norms. Ambedkar candidly recognised that women held equal status as partners in the pursuit of human rights. He urged them to deliver speeches, compose articles, and engage in political assemblies—an unusual occurrence in pre-independence India.

4.Ambedkar’s Discourse on Feminism

Ambedkar underlined the necessity for women to overcome societal norms at several women’s forums. He exhorted them to achieve economic independence, oppose patriarchal family structures, and question repressive conventions. His message was unmistakable: if half of a community is still enslaved, it cannot advance.

5.The Hindu Code Bill: A Significant Contribution to Feminist Discourse

The Hindu Code Bill attempted to provide Indian women with: The right to divorce, Equal property rights, Right to inheritance, Guardianship of children, Abolition of polygamy. At the time, this was one of the world’s most advanced legislative initiatives. Conservative organisations fiercely opposed Ambedkar because they thought women’s emancipation would upend established systems. In a symbolic act that demonstrated his persistent dedication to women’s equality, Ambedkar resigned as Law Minister when the cabinet refused to approve the bill. Ambedkar’s original draft of the law is still seen as a turning point in Indian feminist history, despite the fact that it was eventually enacted in fragmented forms during the 1950s.

The Vision of Ambedkar for Women in Society

Ambedkar saw feminism to be a basic human rights problem rather than only a women’s concern. Among his feminist ideas were:

1.Advancing Women’s Financial Security

Ambedkar contended that reliance on males relegated women to a subordinate status. He contended that women required: Access to education, Opportunities for work. Equitable compensation, Management of assets and financial resources. He demonstrated his sympathy for working women by fighting for maternity benefits while he was a member of the Viceroy’s Council.

2.Reproductive Rights

Ambedkar advocated for birth control because he believed that in order for women to live honourable lives and actively engage in society, they needed to have control over their bodies and reproductive choices.

3. Public Space Access

He advocated for women’s involvement in public life, including politics, governance, education, and social movements. He recognised that engaging in the political process was crucial for genuine empowerment.

4. Dignity and Self-Esteem

Women must learn to defend themselves, demand respect, and resist oppression, Ambedkar emphasised repeatedly.

The Legacy of Ambedkar: An Early Feminist Thought

Many modern feminist researchers and activists still hold Ambedkar’s writings in the highest esteem as laying the groundwork for feminist philosophy in India. These days, discussions on gender, equality, social justice, and caste still rely heavily on his theories.

1. Feminism that is intersectional

Ambedkar acknowledged that women from marginalised areas endure multifaceted oppression.This comprehension constitutes the foundation of contemporary intersectional feminism—a notion that Western intellectuals articulated many decades subsequently. Ambedkar had previously said it in the early 20th century.

2.Transformational Adjustment

Ambedkar advocated for legal and structural transformation rather than solely emphasising individual empowerment. He recognised that patriarchy is a systemic issue and that transformation requires institutional measures.

3. Empowering Women Worldwide

Ambedkar’s approach to feminism encompassed women from diverse castes, classes, religions, and backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on those situated at the lower echelons of the social hierarchy. His feminist ideology embraced a profoundly inclusive perspective.

The Significance of Ambedkar’s Feminism in Contemporary Discourse

India persists in confronting challenges such as gender-based violence, wage disparities, insufficient representation, and discrimination rooted in caste. In this context, Ambedkar’s feminist philosophy holds significant relevance. The call for equitable compensation remains a persistent issue across numerous industries. The advocacy for women’s education is essential for achieving economic autonomy. His pursuit of property and inheritance rights remains a continuous endeavour, particularly in rural regions. His perspective on social equality serves as a poignant reminder that the pursuit of gender justice cannot be realised without the complete eradication of caste systems. For the contemporary generation, Ambedkar stands as a beacon of inspiration—embodying bravery, intellect, and empathy. His existence imparts the lesson that authentic democracy cannot be realised in the absence of gender equality. Conclusion

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar transcended the role of merely being the architect of the Indian Constitution; he was a profound thinker whose insights reshaped the fundamental structures of Indian society. His contributions to women’s rights, legal equality, social justice, and feminist thought position him as one of the most significant advocates for human dignity in contemporary history. Referring to him as the Father of the Indian Constitution is indeed precise; however, designating him as the Father of Indian Feminism is equally warranted. His concepts persist in illuminating the way towards a society that is more equitable, just, and compassionate. Ambedkar conceived of a nation in which every woman could uphold her dignity, experience freedom, and maintain self-respect—a vision that continues to serve as a guiding principle for the future of India. For India to genuinely embody the principles of justice and equality, it is imperative to consistently reflect upon, re-examine, and reaffirm the profound feminist legacy envisioned by Ambedkar.

The author is In-charge Training Division, All-India Mahila Congress (AIMC)