SC verdict on unpaid domestic work: A step forward with inherent class biases
The Supreme Court's recognition of unpaid domestic work by homemakers as valuable economic contribution is a significant step, yet the article argues it suffers from "class blinkers." While acknowledging the immense labor, the verdict primarily focuses on the upper-class model of a single homemaker, overlooking the diverse realities of working-class women who often juggle paid and unpaid labor. It also fails to address the systemic issues of gender inequality, lack of social security, and the need for state support for care work. A truly equitable approach requires broader policy changes that value all forms of domestic labor and provide social protections.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court recognized unpaid domestic work by homemakers as a valuable economic contribution.
- The article criticizes the verdict for its "class blinkers," primarily focusing on upper-class homemakers.
- It overlooks the realities of working-class women who perform both paid and extensive unpaid domestic labor.
- The verdict fails to address systemic issues like gender inequality, lack of social security, and state responsibility for care work.
- A comprehensive approach requires policy changes that value all domestic labor, provide social protections, and redistribute care responsibilities.
Exam Facts
- Supreme Court verdict on unpaid domestic work.
- National Sample Survey (NSS) data: Women spend 2-3 times more time on unpaid work than men.
- Oxfam India report: Women's unpaid work contributes 3.1% to India's GDP.
- The article mentions "Nethra N." as the author.
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