Movement against patriarchy in Kerala

Source: The post movement against patriarchy in Kerala has been created, based on the article “Hema Committee report shows why ambit of social justice must be widened to include women” published in “Indian Express” on 24th September is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1- Society

Context: The article discusses how a movement led by women in Kerala’s film industry is challenging patriarchy. It highlights the need for gender justice and safer workplaces for women, emphasizing that governments must be pressured to take action on these issues.

For detailed information on Hema Committee read this article here

What was the first social revolution in Kerala?

1. The first social revolution in Kerala happened in 1956. EMS Namboodiripad’s government introduced land reforms that ended landlordism and feudalism. Agricultural laborers gained freedom to sell their labor.
2. Although it did not create a dynamic agricultural sector, it reduced the social distance between laborers and landlords.
3. However, patriarchy was left untouched, and men continued to dominate women in most aspects of life.

What sparked the current movement against patriarchy in Kerala?

1. The current movement against patriarchy in Kerala began in the film industry.
2. A group of women formed the Women’s Collective in Cinema (WCC) to challenge misogyny.
3. WCC first addressed sexist dialogues in Malayalam films, spoken by top stars.
4. The movement gained momentum after a young actress was sexually assaulted.
5. WCC pressured the government to investigate women’s working conditions in the film industry.
6. This led to the formation of the Hema Committee, which revealed widespread discrimination and sexual exploitation of women.
7. Delays in publishing the report led to public pressure, forcing the government to release it after a Right to Information ruling.
8. The report triggered resignations in the Kerala Chalachitra Academy and the Association of Malayalam Movie Actors (AMMA).

Why must India update its labor laws for women?

1. India’s labor laws are outdated, with rules like prohibiting night shifts for women and requiring spittoons.
2. Female workforce participation is low, even lower than in Saudi Arabia, due to unsafe workplaces.
3. Cases like the Abhaya case in Kolkata show that lack of basic infrastructure, such as separate toilets and secure rest areas, endangers women.
4. Women are disadvantaged across all caste groups, with lower health, education, and financial independence.
5. The Women’s Collective in Cinema (WCC) in Kerala highlighted sexual exploitation in the film industry, showing the urgent need for safer workplaces for women.

Question for practice:

Can you please form one simple question which can be answer using the above article, start question with word.