Money Transfer Schemes Undermine Women's Rights According to Brinda Karat at National Conference

The direct-benefit-transfer schemes for women, which have been highlighted for their influence on recent elections, undermine women's rights by positioning them merely as beneficiaries, according to CPIM leader Brinda Karat. Speaking at the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW) conference, Karat emphasised the significant role of Left ideology in India's women's movements.

Karat criticised the current political landscape, noting that qualitative changes in democratic institutions have occurred due to a political party that challenges the Constitution. She expressed concern over the RSS's role in altering social dynamics and promoting Hindu Rashtra ideology, which she believes affects women significantly. "We have to work on this," she stated.

Impact of Direct-Benefit Schemes

Karat pointed out that schemes transferring money to women's bank accounts were pivotal in recent Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections. While acknowledging these schemes as a result of women's movements gaining political attention, she stressed that women are entitled to these benefits as rights, not mere handouts. "What are all these schemes that have started -- Rs 1,000-1,500 given to women to get their votes?" she questioned.

She further elaborated on the situation where such monetary incentives could overshadow women's rights and political choices. "We are only beneficiaries in the eyes of the government. This is our right, we are not beneficiaries," Karat asserted. She urged women's movements to take this issue seriously.

Economic Contributions of Women

Highlighting a State Bank of India survey, Karat noted that unpaid women's contributions amount to approximately Rs 22.7 lakh crore, representing 7.5% of India's GDP. She argued that recognising women merely as beneficiaries undermines their economic contributions and weakens their struggle for rights.

NFIW president Aruna Roy expressed concerns about democratic institutions weakening under BJP governance. "We are looking at an India in which democratic institutions created for oversight have been attacked," Roy said. She highlighted the NFIW's efforts during crises like COVID-19 and protests against CAA and NRC.

Challenges to Democracy and Women's Rights

Annie Raja, NFIW general secretary, read a resolution highlighting threats to democracy and increasing communal divides. "The Preamble to the Constitution declares India to be a socialist, secular republic," Raja stated, adding that current conditions defy this spirit with widening economic disparities and efforts to transform India into a fascist Hindu Rashtra.

Raja also recalled NFIW's opposition to right-wing forces aiming to replace the Babri mosque with a Ram temple in Ayodhya. She warned of ongoing repercussions from such actions, including claims of discovering temples beneath mosques.

The three-day NFIW national conference commenced on Friday and will conclude on December 8. The discussions underscored the need for continued vigilance and action to protect women's rights and democratic freedoms in India.