Analysis of Gender Inequality, Masculinity, and Femininity in India

This essay provides a comprehensive analysis of gender inequality in India, examining the societal constructs of masculinity and femininity. The rationale section highlights the prevalence of gender-based discrimination, the traditional perspectives that perpetuate inequality, and the mistreatment ...Read More

Gender (inequality,
constructions of masculinity
and femininity)

Table of Contents
RATIONALE ..................................................................................................................................1
LETTER TO EDITOR ....................................................................................................................1
REFERENCES................................................................................................................................4

RATIONALE
India is popular for having gender inequality among citizens in the country. There are
many individuals that do not treat male and females in the same manner, often making the
society of men more dominant (Batra and Reio, 2016). Even in recent times, women are
considered to be minor and they have to take permissions for daily routine tasks. The
construction of masculinity and femininity has been created long ago and is continued till this
day forward. It is believed that these genders behave differently and they have various biological
factors that separate them. Girls are considered to be a taboo in India and are generally killed
when born or even aborted.
Some females are not given the opportunity to go to school and receive the education that
they deserve. Women are discriminated in public places, schools, offices and even at home. They
are not given the chance to express their point of view and are asked to stay quiet when elders of
the family, especially men, are having a discussion (Gender Inequality in India, 2017). This
traditional perspective has been followed by families for many years. Men are generally
supported when any situations arise, while women are mistreated and more vulnerable to high
rates of discrimination.
LETTER TO EDITOR
Gender (inequality, constructions of masculinity and femininity)
George Monbiot
Date
The high rate of gender equality in India has become extremely high and has to be addressed by
someone. Being in the 21st century, women are oppressed and do not get the chance to make their
own decisions. The rise of feminism has caused much havoc in the male dominant society and
majority of people do not want to see women succeed. This is very disheartening as females are
considered to be the backbone of families and toil everyday to keep each person happy. It is very
well known that in India, women are not allowed to do many things and are bashed by society,
which by the way, include elder ladies as well. The own gender doesn't even support their
younger individuals, let alone motivating them to fight for their equality. Men, on the other hand,
feel that they dominate everyone in the society and most of them do not have the decency to
respect and treat women will equal rights.
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Indians takes gender construction very seriously and discriminate openly. They do not want the
women to dress up or behave like men. They feel that females will not be able to handle
situations the way men do. Funnily enough, boys run to their mothers when they need even the
tiniest of help. They think that the only thing women are good at, is taking care of household
activities and looking after children. In other words, being a servant to family members. While
men are considered to be the individuals that provide resources, protect and lead his wife and
children. Some people defame women that work and think that they are not capable of handling
the duties of cleaning and cooking. This stereotype has been prevailing since the time females
were born. They have not given the empowerment that they deserve, and if a women is
succeeding in life, people will try to bring her down.
There are a lot of issues that women have to deal with on a regular basis. They get bullied,
harassed or even raped by both known and unknown individuals. There is still much progress
that has to be achieved by the society that is male dominant. However, there are some families
that want to support and promote their daughter's or wife's education. They encourage them to
study and work so that they can be independent. But due to many crimes and other activities that
involve putting a women's life and health in danger have been increasing. This is one of the
main reasons why they insist that females should get married and look after homes. No one
wants their daughters to be harassed and raped, but this does not mean that they can't fight for
their rights.
Men are not scared of harassing or teasing women that are out doing their daily activities.
Entertainment industry has depicted the role of women in such a way that the society has created
a mind set that females only have certain roles and responsibilities. Families do not teach their
sons or male members to respect women and this causes many problems for females. Another
case of female discrimination is dowry during weddings. Many people expect that they will be
paid huge sums of money for getting married to girls and if they do not get what they have asked
for, they harass and mistreat their wives. Families are foolish and hungry for cash, and are
willing to do anything to get their hands on it. This causes many fathers to curse daughters when
they are born, and moreover kill them after birth. Yet again, if a girl has been born, it is the fault
of women.
Indian society does not understand that with proper equality, women can contribute to the
welfare of the country in every aspect. There are many women that are extremely talented and
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can do wonders if given the opportunity. But gender equality is persistent and never ends. But no
one bothers standing up for females. Women should start programs that support other females, so
that they can build a community where each woman is encouraged to do what they love. They
should not be oppressed by the male society. Females have to take a stand and claim for the
rights that have been given to human beings. This article can change many lives and give women
the courage of standing up and not being afraid of anyone or anything. It is a disgrace to
humanity that there still is gender inequality present in India. Every female is a wonder woman
and must be treated like one. There is more to just cooking and cleaning for women to do.
GEORGE MONIBIOT
The Guardian
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REFERENCES
Books and Journals
Batra, R. and Reio Jr, T.G., 2016. Gender inequality issues in India. Advances in Developing
Human Resources. 18(1). pp.88-101.
Online
Gender Inequality in India. 2017. [Online]. Available through:
<https://www.indiacelebrating.com/social-issues/gender-inequality-in-india/>
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