In a powerful address during the launch of the book ‘Women Laws from the Womb to the Tomb: Rights and Remedies,’ Supreme Court Justice B V Nagarathna emphasized that women are not encroaching upon traditionally male-dominated spaces, but rather, they are dismantling long-standing barriers that have unjustly excluded them. Authored by senior advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani, the book delves into the intricate legal rights and remedies available to women throughout their lives.
Speaking at the event, Justice Nagarathna articulated a call for a shift in the language used to discuss women’s evolving roles in professional fields, criticizing phrases that subtly imply women are intruders rather than rightful participants. “These spaces were always meant to be shared, and the presence of women in fields of power and influence is neither unusual nor intrusive,” she stated.
The Justice highlighted the outdated notion that attributes power, decision-making, and intellect exclusively to men, branding such beliefs as not only old-fashioned but fundamentally incorrect. “Women are citizens, contributors, thinkers, and leaders. They are not taking over; they are asserting their rightful place,” she explained.
Justice Nagarathna also touched on the practical application of laws designed to protect women, raising concerns about the misuse of certain statutes, such as IPC Section 498 A, which addresses cruelty by a husband or his relatives. She underscored the judiciary’s role in discerning the truth in such cases, ensuring that genuine victims are not overshadowed by false claims. “Our legal framework offers a broad array of protections at every stage of a woman’s life, yet the challenge remains in their effective implementation,” she remarked.
The book’s release event was also graced by Justice K V Viswanathan, who lauded women’s contributions across various fields including science, technology, arts, and culture. He noted that such achievements underscore the immense benefits that society reaps from women’s participation in areas previously dominated by men.
Justice Viswanathan praised the comprehensive coverage of the book, which spans 24 chapters discussing the multitude of challenges women face from birth to old age. “This book is an essential read for every member of the legal community and a valuable resource for every woman to understand and enforce her rights,” he added.
