Description

Women Rights, Law and Justice
Editor: Prof. Dr. Yogesh Kumar Gupta
Published by Universal Academic Books Publishers and Distributors,
New Delhi (India)
ISBN: 978-81-686113-2-0, 2026

Chapter 5

Role of National and State Women Commission

Dr. Sneh Lata Shivhare
Assistant Professor, Sociology, Khun Khun Ji Girls Degree College, Chowk Lucknow (U.P.)

Abstract

This research paper clarifies the background of the social status of women in India and the challenges they face. Historically, Indian society has been patriarchal, which has long prevented women from gaining equal opportunities in social, economic, and political spheres. As a result, women have had to face numerous issues such as discrimination, violence, unequal pay, lack of education, and limited decision-making freedom.

To address these problems and protect women’s rights, the Government of India has developed various institutional arrangements. Among these, the National Commission for Women and State Women’s Commissions are the primary institutions. The main objective of establishing these commissions is to make women aware of their rights, prevent injustice against them, and provide them with justice.

This paper also states that these commissions are not limited to just resolving grievances but also work towards the empowerment of women on a broader scale. For example, these commissions protect the constitutional and legal rights of women and ensure that relevant laws are properly followed. In addition, the commission investigates complaints received regarding matters related to women and, when necessary, directs relevant authorities to take action. This process provides women with a safe platform where they can present their problems without any fear.

A significant point in the paper is that the Women’s Commission also performs the task of reviewing laws. This means that if any deficiency or error is found in a law, the commission suggests improvements to the government. In this way, the commission not only solves current problems but also strives to improve the status of women in the future. The role of the Women’s Commission is also vital in policy formulation. It advises the government on the creation of schemes and policies related to women, making them more effective and practical.

Ultimately, this research paper aims to analyse all these aspects—structure, functions, role, achievements, and challenges. Its purpose is to understand how the Women’s Commission contributes to the empowerment of women and which challenges affect its efficiency.

1. Introduction

Gender mainstreaming involves integrating gender perspectives into governance, focusing on accountability, participation, and decentralization. It examines how women’s interests are defined and represented in policy-making processes. [Rai, 2003]. The study also looks at global strategies for women’s advancement and their influence at the national level. Various case studies from different countries highlight the practical implementation of gender equality initiatives. Personal laws in India often create inequalities in women’s rights, especially in areas like marriage, divorce, inheritance, and property. Despite legal reforms, patriarchal structures continue to influence these laws and limit women’s access to justice. There is a gap between formal legal equality and actual social and legal outcomes for women. Comprehensive and gender-just legal reforms are necessary to achieve true equality and justice.[Jaising, 1996].