Gender stereotypes and norms have always been at the centre stage of debate on the masculine construct wherein the society dictates functional ideals based on the sex of an individual and its consequence becomes apparent in the sex-linked stereotypes in any functioning space. Such a stereotype is seen in disproportionate contraceptive burden on Indian women owing to the lack of male involvement in family planning. The blatant agreement on the statement, “contraceptive is women’s business,” serves as an evidence of such masculinity in the reproductive sphere.
Mobility as Capability: Women in the Informal Economy by Nikhila Menon, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020; pp xvi + 196, price not available.
Bans and Bar Girls: Performing Caste in Mumbai’s Dance Bars by Sameena Dalwai, published by Women Unlimited (an associate of Kali for Women), New Delhi, 2019; pp 242, `595 (hardcover).
Gail Omvedt widened the horizons of scholarship on caste, class, and gender by probing into hitherto unexplored areas and inspired fellow scholars and activists to pursue new inquiries. A fellow traveller on the path of transformative theory and praxis looks back on these intertwined journeys.
The contributions of Sonal Shukla to the social and feminist movements in India are detailed upon. Her literary stints interwoven with an indefatigable, courageous spirit serve as an inspiration for all the socially conscious citizens of the country.
Wajida Tabassum’s stories—relatively unknown now, but popular and controversial in her time—explore gender and class through sexuality, desire, and resistance.
The recent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act judgments of the Bombay High Court have led to a gamut of criticisms from lawyers and activists alike.
