The women's movement in India has a long and complex history, with various phases and milestones. The movement for women's rights and gender equality in India can be traced back to the late 19th century and early 20th century, during the period of British colonial rule.
One of the earliest significant events in the women's movement in India was the establishment of the first women's organization, the Bharat Stree Mahamandal (All India Women's Conference), in 1917. This organization aimed to address issues such as education, political rights, and social reforms for women.
Another prominent figure in the Indian women's movement was Kamini Roy, a social reformer and poet, who actively campaigned for women's suffrage and education. She became the first woman to graduate with honors in British India in 1886 and played a significant role in raising awareness about women's rights.
In the post-independence era, the women's movement gained further momentum. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of feminist groups and organizations that worked towards gender equality and women's empowerment. These groups advocated for legal reforms, improved access to education and healthcare, and challenged patriarchal norms and practices.
In more recent years, the women's movement in India has addressed a wide range of issues, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, dowry-related crimes, female foeticide, and gender discrimination in various spheres of life.
It's important to note that the women's movement in India is not a singular event with a specific start date, but rather a continuous struggle for gender equality that has evolved over time.