Evolution of Muslim Women’s Rights in India
Dr. Sadaf Sarfraz Sheikh
Faculty, Department of Sociology
RTM, Nagpur University
Abstract
This paper examines the evolution of Muslim women’s rights in India through the lenses of Sharia, Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), and socio-legal reforms. It explores historical and contemporary educational status, marriage rights under Islamic law versus IKS-influenced practices, workplace rights, and the framework of Muslim Personal Law (MPL). While Islam grants women significant rights—such as property ownership, divorce, and financial autonomy—patriarchal interpretations and socio-cultural norms often dilute these protections. The paper integrates data representations to highlight educational progress and marriage rights disparities, critically analysing legal milestones like the Shah Bano case (1985) and the 2019 triple talaq ban, alongside barriers like low educational attainment and workplace discrimination. By contrasting Sharia’s progressive principles with IKS’s diverse influences, it advocates for codified personal laws and educational reforms to empower Muslim women, fostering gender equity within India’s pluralistic legal system. The methodology employs a mixed-methods approach, including historical analysis, quantitative data from NFHS-5 and PLFS, and socio-legal case studies, with findings validated through stakeholder consultations. The paper concludes that while significant strides have been made, sustained legal and educational interventions are essential to fully realize gender equity for Muslim women in India.
Keywords: – Indian Knowledge system, Muslim Personal Law, Women’s Rights.
DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2601S01V14P106
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