Breaking the Social Chains: Ambedkar’s Fight Against Patriarchy and Caste-based Oppression

Abstract

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had a comprehensive understanding of the challenges being posed by patriarchy and caste system in the Indian society. These social challenges have been leaving very critical and drastic impacts on the Indian women in general and Dalit women in particular.  Consequently, he was emerged as a staunch advocate for women's rights.  As the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, he ensured the inclusion of constitutional and legal provisions that have effectively prohibited gender discrimination and lessen the impacts of patriarchy on the women. Ambedkar had provided a thorough analysis of the caste system's practice of endogamy, highlighting its negative impact on women's autonomy and its role in perpetuating patriarchal dominance by using women to uphold caste purity. Also, he campaigned tirelessly against child marriage and other regressive practices, using his expertise to advocate for legislative changes that would safeguard the well-being of young girls and advance their rights. He highlighted the significance of women's education, particularly for those from marginalised communities, to empower them to confront oppressive norms with confidence. Economic independence was a major priority for Ambedkar, who strongly advocated for women's active involvement in the workforce and equal employment opportunities. He demonstrated a high level of expertise in his efforts to challenge patriarchal social order. Consequently, he pursued strong advocacy to decrease the women’s reliance on male family members and promote self-sufficiency. In order to achieve this, he played a crucial role in drafting the Hindu Code Bill. This bill aimed to bring about reforms in Hindu personal laws, granting women the right to inherit property, divorce, and remarry. His actions served as a powerful inspiration for countless individuals, motivating them to join the struggle against caste and gender oppression. His strategies included implementing legal reforms, advocating for education, promoting economic empowerment, launching social campaigns, and providing personal leadership. He recognised the importance of addressing the intersectionality of caste and gender, with the ultimate goal of creating a society that is more inclusive and equitable. His efforts serve as a source of inspiration for current movements advocating for women's rights and social justice. By analysing Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s critiques of patriarchy and caste discriminations and his strategy for social reforms, this abstract underscore his enduring legacy as a beacon of hope for change in the ongoing struggle against systematic oppression. The research primarily draws upon primary sources, including Ambedkar's original works, speeches, and writings, supplemented by significant contemporary scholarship. The significance of this study lies in its demonstration of the continued relevance of Ambedkar's thought in an increasingly globalized and market-oriented world, where inequalities have assumed new forms. The objective of this paper is to assess the continued relevance of Ambedkar's efforts and to assess the continued relevance of Ambedkar's ideas in the present context. To contextualize these objectives, the paper would present a thorough examination of Ambedkar's multifaceted strategy for combating patriarchy and caste-based discrimination, as well as to emphasise the continued relevance and importance of his endeavours to advance social justice and gender equality.