Gender & Caste: Interface and Issues 

The feminist movement is at a historic juncture. Internationally, the forces of resurgent patriarchy, religious fundamentalism and unregulated neo-liberalism are combining to perpetuate new forms of subjugation of women. On the domestic front, the dalit feminist position on various issues is providing a new critical dimension to mainstream Indian feminism. 

The constitution of India has formally ended caste-based discriminations in public spaces and guaranteed social and political equality to all citizens. Economic development and social upliftment have been the central concerns of successive economic plans. The nation has seen unprecedented changes in economic growth. A notable feature of this progress has been an increasing visibility of women in all walks of life as well as decision making. 

Notwithstanding these commendable advances, there are a number of issues that are a matter of socio-political and economic concern that need to be addressed immediately if gender equality is to be achieved. To this end, a neglected dimension that has substantive relevance in mainstream gender expositions today is to understand the interface between gender and caste in Indian settings. Experts in the arena of women’s studies have expressed the dire need for a more nuanced and rigorous investigation on the subject of the relationship between gender and caste and its diverse material outcomes in terms of access to resources, rights and political voice. 

This seminar is a sincere effort to provide a platform to academicians, activists, teachers and students to discuss relevant and vital issues pertaining to gender and caste and generate valuable insights into the nature of the emerging social order. 

It is our great pleasure to invite you for the seminar. We also expect from our affiliated colleges that the Principal and two teaching/non-teaching staff, preferably representatives of the WDC, participate in the seminar. The registration form is enclosed herewith.

 

Looking forward to a fruitful interaction.

 

Dr. Vijay Khole      Dr. Kranti Jejurkar       Dr.Ritu Dewan

Vice-Chancellor          Chairperson            Professor DOE

&                                UWDC                        &

President UWDC                                          Coordinator CHD

University of Mumbai