Hansa Mehta: A Trailblazer for Women’s Rights in India

Introduction

Hansa Mehta was an eminent social reformer, educationist, writer, and activist who played a crucial role in shaping modern India. She was a staunch advocate for women’s rights and made significant contributions to India’s constitutional framework, particularly in ensuring gender equality. Mehta’s legacy is often overshadowed by other freedom fighters, but her efforts in shaping policies related to women’s empowerment, education, and international diplomacy were extraordinary.

Early Life and Education

Hansa Mehta was born on July 3, 1897, in Surat, Gujarat, into a progressive and well-educated family. Her father, Manubhai Mehta, was a prominent administrator and the Dewan of Baroda. Growing up in a family that valued education and social service, Mehta had the opportunity to receive a quality education.

She pursued higher education in philosophy and sociology and later traveled to England for further studies. During her time abroad, she was exposed to various political ideologies and social reform movements, which deeply influenced her perspective on gender equality and human rights.

Role in India’s Freedom Movement

Hansa Mehta was actively involved in India’s struggle for independence. She joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and became closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders of the independence movement. Inspired by Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and self-reliance, she actively participated in civil disobedience movements, protests, and advocacy for social reforms.

During the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, she was arrested for participating in the movement against British rule. Her fearless activism led to multiple imprisonments, but she remained undeterred in her commitment to India’s freedom.

Contribution to Women’s Rights

One of Mehta’s most significant contributions was her advocacy for women’s rights, both in India and on the global stage. She strongly believed in the importance of education and economic independence for women. She worked relentlessly to break social taboos and challenge the deeply entrenched patriarchy in Indian society.

Role in the Constituent Assembly

After India gained independence in 1947, Mehta was appointed as a member of the Constituent Assembly. She played a crucial role in drafting the Indian Constitution, particularly in shaping policies related to gender equality.

One of her most notable achievements was her contribution to the framing of Article 14, which guarantees “equality before the law” and equal protection to all citizens, regardless of gender. She also played an important role in ensuring that Article 15(1) prohibited discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

Mehta was instrumental in replacing the phrase “men and women” with “all persons” in the fundamental rights section of the Constitution. This seemingly small change had a profound impact, as it ensured that women were included in all rights granted to citizens.

Advocacy at the United Nations

Hansa Mehta represented India at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights and played a significant role in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). In 1947, when the drafting of the UDHR was underway, she worked closely with Eleanor Roosevelt, the chairperson of the commission.

Mehta successfully advocated for changing the phrase “All men are born free and equal” to “All human beings are born free and equal” in Article 1 of the UDHR. This was a landmark achievement as it ensured that women’s rights were explicitly recognized in international human rights discourse.

Contributions to Education and Literature

Apart from her political and social activism, Hansa Mehta was a renowned educationist. She believed that education was the key to women’s empowerment and played a pivotal role in promoting higher education for women in India.

Vice-Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University

In 1946, Mehta became the Vice-Chancellor of SNDT (Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey) Women’s University in Mumbai, making her the first woman to hold such a position in India. During her tenure, she introduced several reforms to improve the quality of education and ensure that women had equal opportunities in higher studies.

Her efforts helped bridge the gender gap in education and encouraged more women to pursue professional careers.

Writer and Social Commentator

Hansa Mehta was also a prolific writer. She authored several books, including works on social issues, children’s literature, and women’s rights. Through her writings, she highlighted the struggles faced by women and the need for progressive reforms in Indian society.

Some of her well-known works include books for children that aimed to instill moral values and inspire young minds. Her literature played a crucial role in shaping modern feminist thought in India.

Legislative and Policy Contributions

Hansa Mehta served in various legislative capacities to further the cause of women’s rights. She was a member of the Bombay Legislative Council and later became the President of the All India Women’s Conference (AIWC) in 1946.

Under her leadership, the AIWC worked towards major reforms, including advocating for the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to give women equal rights in marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. Her relentless efforts contributed to the passage of progressive laws that laid the foundation for gender justice in India.

Legacy and Recognition

Hansa Mehta’s contributions to India’s social, political, and educational landscape have had a lasting impact. She is remembered as a pioneer of women’s rights and a visionary leader who worked tirelessly to build a more equitable society.

Honors and Recognition

• She was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, for her contributions to social work and education.
• Several institutions and scholarships have been named in her honor to recognize her contributions to women’s education.
• Her work at the UN remains one of the most significant contributions by an Indian to global human rights.

Impact on Modern India

Hansa Mehta’s advocacy for women’s rights and education continues to inspire generations of activists and policymakers. The legal and social reforms she fought for have paved the way for a more inclusive society where women have greater access to opportunities in education, employment, and leadership.

Today, women in India hold key positions in politics, business, and academia, and much of this progress can be attributed to the groundwork laid by pioneers like Hansa Mehta.

Conclusion

Hansa Mehta was a true trailblazer who dedicated her life to the causes of freedom, gender equality, and education. Her contributions to India’s Constitution, her role in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and her tireless efforts in promoting women’s rights make her one of the most influential figures in India’s history.

Despite facing societal barriers, she broke stereotypes and set an example for future generations. Her legacy serves as a reminder that the fight for gender equality requires relentless effort, courage, and a commitment to justice. As India continues to evolve, Hansa Mehta’s vision of an egalitarian society remains as relevant as ever.