Question
Read the quotation given below. Which article of the Constitution do you think she was referring to? Why do you think she said that the equality of women was not a new concept for India? Discuss in the class. “Sir, the women of India are happy to step into their rightful heritage of complete equality with men in all spheres of life and activity. I say so because I am convinced that this is no new concept which has been postulated for the purposes of this Constitution, but is an ideal that has long .been cherished by India, though social conditions for some time had tragically debased it in practice. This Constitution affirms that ideal and gives the solemn assurance that the rights of women in law will be wholly honoured in the Indian Republic.” -BegumAizaz Rasul, 22 November 1949,during the Constituent Assembly’s debates

Answer

Begum Aizaz Rasul was referring to Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws to all people, regardless of their gender, caste, religion, or background. This means that men and women are treated equally and fairly by the law. She said that equality of women was not a new concept for India because, in India’s ancient culture and traditions, women were respected and given an important place in society.
There were many powerful women in history who were leaders, scholars, and warriors. However, over time, social customs and practices became unfair, and women were not treated equally. Begum Aizaz Rasul believed that the Constitution was helping India return to its original values by making the law fair for women again.
This quotation shows how the Constitution gave women the legal right to equality and dignity in the new Indian Republic.

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