Question

There is a directive to ensure ‘equal pay for equal work.’

Which principles and ideals of the Constitution will be realised with this directive? Why does it happen that inspite of doing the same work, women are paid less than men?

Answer 1

• The principle of ‘equal pay for equal work’ reflects the ideals of justice, liberty and equality guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
• However, even today, women are sometimes paid less than men despite performing the same work. This is mainly due to traditional and discriminatory attitudes towards women.
• Indian society has traditionally been patriarchal, where men are viewed as the main earners of the family, while women’s earnings are often seen only as additional support.
• However, this situation is gradually changing. Today, women are increasingly performing the same jobs as men and receiving equal wages, which allows them to contribute equally to the family’s income.
• Women have proved their mettle in every sphere of life and have even outshone men.