The Founding Mothers of the Indian Constitution

 I had the honour of participating as a panellist in a discussion titled "The Founding Mothers: 15 Women Architects of the Indian Constitution" held on 12 August 2025. 

https://www.scconline.com/blog/post/2025/08/11/nliu-bhopal-panel-15-women-architects-indian-constitution/ 

The session offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women to the making of the Indian Constitution and to evaluate the broader implications of their legacy in today’s socio-political landscape.

One of the central questions that emerged during the discussion was the socio-economic background of these pioneering women. It was observed that, except for two, the majority of these women hailed from elite, well-connected families. This fact, while seemingly exclusionary at first glance, needs to be understood within the historical and societal context of early 20th-century India.

During that time, female literacy was alarmingly low—according to the Census of India conducted in 1930, only 2.39 percent of women were literate. By the time India gained independence in 1947, the rate had only risen to 8 percent. Women's participation in public life was severely constrained by patriarchal norms, cultural taboos, and limited access to education. These conditions meant that leadership roles, especially in national politics and constitutional affairs, were often restricted to women from privileged families who had the rare advantage of education and public visibility.

In contrast, today the female literacy rate stands at approximately 70 percent. An increasing number of women are pursuing education, entering the workforce, and aspiring to positions of leadership. Yet, systemic barriers persist. Despite significant progress, women remain grossly underrepresented in institutions of power. For example, women currently constitute only 14.7 percent of India’s Parliament, and their presence in the Higher Judiciary—including the High Courts and the Supreme Court—remains disproportionately low. This is not due to a lack of qualified women, but rather the persistent reluctance of political parties and institutions to share power on equal terms. Even today, few parties nominate women in numbers proportionate to their male counterparts.

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment, which introduced reservations for women in Panchayati Raj institutions, was a landmark reform. Today, over 1.4 million women serve in local self-government bodies. However, many of these women face institutional and social resistance, with some reduced to proxy representatives while male relatives continue to wield real control. This practice undermines the very spirit of democratic decentralization and gender empowerment.

We also examined the political dynamics that influenced the selection of members for the Constituent Assembly. Historical research reveals that orthodox nationalists at the time opposed the inclusion of women, arguing against their participation in the nation's foundational processes. Moreover, male leaders from the same communities often actively obstructed women's entry, using both formal and informal mechanisms to limit their involvement.

Another important subject of debate was the Women’s Reservation Bill, a proposal that remained stalled in Parliament for decades. The resistance to this bill was, and continues to be, rooted in the unwillingness of many male leaders to relinquish political space. Even though the Women’s Reservation Law has now been enacted, the promised 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies remains far from implementation, largely due to delaying caveats and a lack of political will.

If we were truly equal, there would be no need for reservation. But equality in principle does not mean equality in practice. Social and economic hierarchies continue to affect access to education, employment, and power. Until we achieve genuine political equality—where everyone has an equal voice and opportunity—reservation remains essential as a corrective measure to address historical and structural injustices.

The conversation concluded with a consensus that any discussion around reservation and representation must go beyond symbolic gestures or numerical quotas. True empowerment requires us to confront the structural barriers that prevent marginalized groups—not just women, but also those from oppressed castes, classes, and communities—from accessing and exercising power. Representation must be paired with reforms that ensure meaningful participation and agency. It is not enough to have a seat at the table; one must also be heard, respected, and empowered to lead.

This discussion was a timely reminder that the legacy of the Constitution’s founding mothers is not just a matter of historical record—it is a living call to action. Their contributions challenge us to continue striving for a more inclusive, equitable, and democratic society.

Remembering the Founding Mothers of the Indian Constitution

March 8, 2025

In my article that appeared here https://janataweekly.org/remembering-the-founding-mothers-of-the-indian-constitution/, I wrote about the Indian women who played a key role in pre-colonial times, contributing immensely to the freedom struggle and shaping the Indian Constitution. 

The pioneer women paved the way for democracy, and it is because of their efforts that Indian women today enjoy equal citizenship rights. They serve as a role model for future generations. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of women to engage with the state and assert their citizenship rights. 

Decades later, the impact of their work is visible. Then, 15 women participated in drafting the Constitution; today, 1.4 million women serve as panchayat leaders. While more women must be joining the top-level decision-making bodies, including the Parliament, the Supreme Court, the High Courts, and the Legislative Assemblies, it is important to celebrate the role of the Founding Mothers. 

As the world celebrates Women's History Month, India could take a moment to recognize the contribution of its Founding Mothers, who advocated for lasting changes. 

As early as 1939, women's collective, in their report of the Sub-Committee on Women's Role in Planned Economy, reimagined the Indian woman as a complete, self-sufficient, and pro-active citizen. 

This report noted, 

"We do not wish to turn a woman into a cheap imitation of a man or to render her useless for the great tasks of motherhood and nation-building. But in demanding equal status and opportunity, we desire to achieve for women the possibility of development under favourable circumstances of education and opportunity, and while doing so, urge upon the State its responsibility towards women in this respect."

Based on this report, the Indian Women's Charter on Rights and Duties was prepared, which highlighted that educated and capable men and women, enjoying their rights to freedom and equality, could contribute to societal progress. 

The outcome of their struggles was a radical step towards liberation. The writing of the Constitution refuted the colonial logic of natives being incapable of self-rule. 

The Founding Mothers significantly shaped the Preamble, advocating for equality, liberty, justice, democracy, and secularism, besides affirmative actions for the marginalized. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, they championed the rights of women in a male-dominated society. 

Their legacy continues to inspire future generations. 

At NCERT: On Founding Mothers

What is the Legacy the Founding Mothers left behind for us to follow?

The legacy of the women members of the Constituent Assembly is profound, as they played a pivotal role in shaping India's political and social framework. These women members have left an indelible mark on the life, history, and progress of India, influencing every aspect of the nation's development. 

As a result of the rigorous efforts by these women members during colonial times, women in post-colonial India are recognized as equal citizens rather than mothers, daughters, or wives. 

Through their active participation in the freedom struggle and crafting the Constitution, these women revolutionized how women's issues were shaped and addressed in this country. 

Despite the significant challenges they faced, they paved the way for future generations of women to engage actively in public life and policymaking. India owes a deep debt of respect to these founding mothers for their enduring contributions. Their impact is evident in the ongoing movement toward gender equality, underscoring the essential role women played in crafting the nation’s foundational principles.

Through their advocacy for women's rights and active participation in policy discussions, they influenced key decisions and paved the way for future generations of women in public life and policymaking. Their unwavering spirit, courage, and wisdom left a lasting impact on India's development, particularly in areas like gender equality, individual freedoms, decentralization, and social justice. Their contributions continue to inspire and ensure that their efforts are remembered in the nation's history.