In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that courts should avoid making patriarchal remarks and not further the notion that only male children will assist parents in their old age. The decision comes after a case in which a woman had been disinherited by her father because she married against his wishes. The father had argued that his son was the only one who would take care of him in his old age, and therefore, he had the right to disinherit his daughter.
The Supreme Court, however, rejected this argument, stating that such patriarchal notions have no place in modern society. The court emphasized that all children, regardless of gender, have a moral and legal obligation to take care of their parents in their old age. The court also stressed that gender equality is a fundamental right and that the judiciary must take steps to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, are treated equally under the law. This ruling has been widely welcomed by activists and advocates of women’s rights, who have long argued that patriarchal attitudes and gender discrimination are still prevalent in Indian society. They hope that this decision will help to challenge and dismantle such attitudes and lead to greater gender equality.
The Supreme Court’s decision is a significant step toward a more equitable society, where all individuals are treated equally and with respect. It sends a strong message to those who continue to perpetuate patriarchal attitudes and discrimination, and it is a victory for women’s rights and gender equality. The Supreme Court’s decision is particularly significant in the context of India, where patriarchal attitudes and discrimination against women are deeply entrenched. According to a 2018 report by the World Economic Forum, India ranks 142nd out of 149 countries in terms of gender equality. The report highlights the persistent gender pay gap, the high rates of female infanticide, and the low participation of women in the workforce as key factors contributing to India’s poor performance.
In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of gender discrimination in India, including the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder, which sparked nationwide protests and led to changes in India’s rape laws. However, despite these efforts, patriarchal attitudes continue to be prevalent in many aspects of Indian society, including the family. The Supreme Court’s decision is therefore a positive step towards challenging these attitudes and promoting greater gender equality.
By emphasizing the legal and moral obligation of all children, regardless of gender, to take care of their parents in old age, the court has sent a clear message that gender discrimination will not be tolerated.
It is worth noting, however, that changing deeply entrenched attitudes and behaviors is a long and complex process. While the Supreme Court’s decision is an important step in the right direction, it will take sustained efforts across multiple sectors of society to bring about lasting change.
Nonetheless, the decision is a cause for celebration for advocates of women’s rights and gender equality in India and around the world. It serves as a reminder that progress is possible, even in the face of deep-seated social and cultural norms.
Written By- Lakshya Sharma student of 1st year BBA LLB at Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies affiliated with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University
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