2024: A Year Of Braveheart Women

2024 has been a remarkable year, challenging many age-old societal norms and sending a powerful message to those grappling with struggles: It’s okay to take a stand for yourself. The fear of societal criticism often deters individuals from seeking justice. However, this year witnessed numerous stories of perseverance and courage that dominated news bulletins, many centered around high-profile court cases.

As the nation eagerly awaited verdicts, these cases ignited discussions on Indian laws and judicial rights in households, encouraging a deeper understanding of the justice system and individual empowerment.

A few cases stood out in 2024, fervently grabbing the headlines and inspiring millions to raise their opinions. 

Withdrawal of remission granted to Bilkis Bano convicts. 

In a landmark decision on January 8, 2024, the Supreme Court quashed the Gujarat government’s remission order that had granted freedom to 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case. The Bench ruled that the remission granted was illegal, reaffirming the importance of upholding justice. The release of the convicts on India’s Independence Day in 2022 sparked widespread outrage. However, 2024 became a pivotal year as Bilkis Bano, invoking Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, fought back with unwavering determination.

Article 14: The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India.

Article 21: No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.

This case became a source of inspiration for millions of women, encouraging them to stand up against injustice with unwavering courage. It reinforced the belief that justice can prevail, no matter how dire or unjust the past circumstances may have been. 

R G KAR Medical College And Hospital, Kolkata

The tragic alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old medical professional at her workplace shocked the nation, serving as a wake-up call to the vulnerabilities faced by healthcare professionals in government-affiliated setups. The lack of security in such workplaces sparked widespread outrage, prompting the Supreme Court to introduce new guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety and protection of healthcare workers.

What remains disheartening is that it took the untimely demise of a dedicated doctor to get the nation into action. Yet, this case, alongside the recently popular Blake Lively's case, stands as a testament to the importance of women standing up against workplace harassment and demanding job security. It sends a powerful message that ensuring safety and dignity at work is not just a demand but a fundamental right.

Film Industry Cases In 2024

Whether it was Nayanthara vs. Dhanush or the release of the Hema Committee Report detailing allegations from female artists and workers in the Malayalam film industry, 2024 was marked by cases that sparked significant discussions.

In the case of Nayanthara and Dhanush, it was Nayanthara’s open expression and firm stance that left a lasting impression. The conflict arose over an unfair legal compensation demand of Rs. 10 crores for a three-second BTS clip from a movie set where Dhanush was the producer.

Her resolute stand against this demand has inspired countless individuals, particularly those facing challenges in standing up to senior members in their professions.

The release of the Hema Committee Report not only exposed the challenges faced by female artists and workers in the Malayalam film industry but also sent a powerful message: standing up against sexual abuse and harassment is both necessary and possible.The report has become a beacon of hope for those facing similar situations, demonstrating that taking a stance against injustice can inspire others to do the same.

The courage displayed by women has defined 2024 as a year where brave individuals charged forward, breaking barriers, and fighting against all odds to demand justice.

Views expressed by the author are their own.