Indian women have always been shown as the docile subservient species, helping the men and supporting them from the background. But that is absolutely not true for as far as reality goes. There have been many aggressive and feisty women, fighting for the betterment of the country and the society in their own ways. These women have broken multiple glass ceilings and shown the world the strength of feminity through their actions. Here we bring forward a list of 10 women social reformers who fought for new India:-
- Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi
One of the fiercest women who fought for the Indian Independence, the Rani Laxmi Bai was an amazing personality. She fought and repelled the British with her young son, and defended her husband’s estate, along with the common people of India. She was a well-read person who would never back down or could be threatened into submission.
- Kiran Bedi
If you think women are soft and cannot stand against a man, we suggest you think again! Kiran Bedi is a well-known IPS officer who has handled quite a few important administrative posts in the Indian government. She is strict and exacting and doesn’t tolerate nonsense from men or women. She is the recipient of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award and had brought down the number of crimes, and instituted many helpful prison reforms.
- Pramila Nesargi
A well-known female lawyer fighting for women’s rights, Pramila Nesargi is that person who doesn’t fear the rich and corrupt. She has handled a wide array of cases from the sensational to the high profile quota and stands her ground in the face of severe criticism or peer pressure.
- Irom Sharmila
She is known as the Iron Lady of the North East. She Kept a fast for over 10 years to protest and ask for the repeal of the draconian Special Armed Forces Act which has often led to the demise of many innocent citizens as well.
- Medha Patkar
She is a well-known conservationist and plays an active role in protecting tribal lands from being forcibly taken away by big greedy corporations. She started the Narmada Bachao Andolan and prevented the reckless use of land and avoided the displacement of so many tribals.
- Laxmi Agarwal
She is a strong, gutsy woman who survived a horrific acid attack and has become a symbol of resistance against all such similar perpetrators. The sale of acid was restricted throughout India thanks to her perseverance.
- Amala Akkineni
She is a multi-talented woman with a dedicated NGO for the helpless stray animals. She actively campaigns against animal cruelty.
- Aruna Roy
A well-known activist who fights the government on corruption and malpractices, Aruna Roy is a well known civil servant who helps in the upliftment and better management of farmers.
- Manasi Pradhan
She is also a fierce lady who fought for education for all and upliftment of the poor. Manasi makes sure that violence against women cannot be perpetrated and dismissed with her multiple committees like Nirbhaya Vahini, OYSS Women, and Honour for Women National Campaign.
10. Shaheen Mistri
She is well known for her work in improving the quality of life in slum areas and promoting education and better development for all.
Of course, there are many more notable women out there. So let us salute the spirit of womanhood with these gutsy social reformers who dared to change the rigid and unjust laws of patriarchy and society.