The Founding Mothers: 15 Women Architects of Indian Constitution

 The Book Release event that took place on March 8, 2016

Justice Kurien Joseph 

Professor Mridula Mukherjee

Professor Bulbul Sharma

Pamela Philipose 

Dr MP Raju

Shabnam Hashmi

Sr Mary Scaria

Shalu Nigam 

At this book event, one of the most significant and thought-provoking concerns raised was the continued neglect of the Founding Mothers in post-colonial India. Why have the women who contributed so meaningfully to the freedom struggle and the building of modern India been so systematically erased from our national consciousness? Why do their stories remain footnotes, if mentioned at all, in our mainstream history, public discourse, or institutional memory?

This silence becomes even more troubling when placed in the broader context of India’s post-independence journey. Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, decades of democratic governance, and growing conversations around gender justice, women still remain strikingly underrepresented in the highest echelons of power. Whether in the judiciary, the Parliament, or key positions within bureaucratic and academic institutions, the absence of women—especially in leadership roles—is stark.

The question, then, is not only about historical neglect but also about the systemic barriers that continue to limit women’s advancement. Structural patriarchy, tokenism, lack of mentorship, societal expectations, and institutional inertia all contribute to this ongoing marginalization. Even where legal frameworks exist to promote gender equality, their implementation is often half-hearted or obstructed by deep-rooted biases.

This raises urgent questions about the kind of democracy we have built—one that, despite its commitments on paper, has struggled to ensure equal participation and recognition for half of its population. Recognizing the contributions of the Founding Mothers is not only a matter of historical justice; it is also a political and cultural necessity. Their stories have the power to inspire new generations, challenge dominant narratives, and push institutions to reflect the inclusive ideals enshrined in our Constitution.