Evolution of Women's Rights in Kashmir: Analyzing Transitions from Independence to Post-Abrogation of Article 370
Aftab Ahmad Mir
Ph.D Research Scholar, Department of Sociology & Social Work, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar
The socio-political history of Kashmir has played a pivotal role in shaping women's rights in the region. From India's independence in 1947 to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Kashmiri women's legal and social status has undergone significant transformations. The study critically examines the evolution of women's rights in Kashmir, analyzing key political, legal, and social shifts. The study explores the impact of Article 370 and 35A on women's autonomy, particularly regarding property rights and socio-economic opportunities. It further delves into the gendered consequences of the insurgency that began in 1989, highlighting issues such as gender-based violence, displacement, and militarization. The revocation of Article 370, while presented as a move towards gender equality, has elicited mixed responses regarding its actual benefits and implementation. Adopted a qualitative approach, the research synthesizes historical records, legal frameworks, and sociological analyses to provide a nuanced understanding of gender dynamics in Kashmir. By integrating Feminist Legal Theory, Conflict Theory, Postcolonial Feminism, and Islamic Feminism, this study contextualizes the struggles and agency of Kashmiri women within broader discourses on gender rights in conflict zones. The findings underscore the complexity of legal and social reforms in contested regions, offering insights into the continuing challenges and possibilities for Kashmiri women in the post-abrogation era.
Keywords: Danish East India Company, Balasore, colonial trade, European settlements, Indian maritime history
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