Human Rights Challenges Faced by Women Working in Tamil Nadu's Unorganised Sectors

Abstract

The rights status of working women in Tamil Nadu's unorganized sectors is a pressing global issue. These women face precarious conditions, limited social protections, and gender-based discrimination. Factors like caste, class, and education level exacerbate their marginalization. Efforts to improve their rights require addressing structural barriers and socio-cultural norms perpetuating inequality. The informal sector, crucial for economic progress, offers poor wages, inconsistent employment, and lacks benefits like healthcare coverage. Activities in the sector include shopkeeping, farming, domestic work, and construction labor, constituting approximately 92% of total employment in India from 2005 to 2020. Women's significant contributions in these disorganized industries are hindered by numerous obstacles and vulnerabilities. The study examines the human rights challenges confronting women in Tamil Nadu's unorganized sectors, aiming to uncover prevalent forms of gender-based discrimination and assess the impact of factors like caste and education. It evaluates the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks and proposes strategies for addressing these issues. Through a comprehensive analysis, it sheds light on the complex challenges women face in these sectors, informing policy interventions and advocacy efforts for gender equality and rights protection. Utilizing qualitative and quantitative data alongside insights from relevant literature and legal frameworks, the study underscores the urgency of addressing these human rights concerns for a more equitable society.