Commencement of the Indian Constitution

The correct answer is option 'C', which states that women in India gained universal suffrage rights with the commencement of the Indian Constitution. Let's explore this answer in detail:

Introduction:
- Universal suffrage refers to the right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, without any discrimination based on gender, race, or any other criteria.
- The Indian Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, laid the foundation for democratic governance in India.

Background:
- Before the Indian Constitution came into force, the country was under British colonial rule.
- The Indian independence movement, led by various freedom fighters, fought for the rights and freedoms of the Indian people.
- The struggle for women's suffrage was an integral part of the broader movement for independence.

The Indian Constitution and Women's Suffrage:
- The Indian Constitution is a comprehensive document that enshrines the fundamental rights and principles of governance for the Indian Republic.
- It guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- The Constitution ensures gender equality and extends suffrage rights to all adult citizens, regardless of their gender.

Key Provisions:
- The Indian Constitution grants the right to vote to all citizens above the age of 18.
- Article 326 specifically states that "the elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assembly of every State shall be on the basis of adult suffrage."
- This means that all adult citizens, including women, have the right to vote in both national and state elections.

Impact:
- The commencement of the Indian Constitution marked a significant milestone in the history of women's suffrage in India.
- It ensured that women were recognized as equal citizens with the right to participate in the democratic process.
- Women's participation in elections has since increased, and their voices and concerns are now represented in political decision-making.

Conclusion:
- The commencement of the Indian Constitution in 1950 granted women in India universal suffrage rights.
- It was a progressive step towards gender equality and ensured that women could exercise their right to vote without any discrimination.
- This key provision of the Indian Constitution has had a lasting impact on the democratic fabric of the country, promoting inclusivity and representation for all citizens.