Neoliberalism and Gender Justice: Examining Economic Reforms and Feminist Responses in India

The economic reforms introduced in India in 1991, marked by liberalisation, privatisation, and globalisation, have significantly shaped the country’s economic landscape but also deepened gender inequalities. This study examines the gendered consequences of these neoliberal policies, focusing on their impact on labour markets, access to resources, and social structures. The reforms led to the feminisation of informal and precarious work, reduced access to public services like healthcare and education, and reinforced intersectional disparities based on caste, class, and religion. These changes have disproportionately affected women and marginalised genders, exacerbating economic and social vulnerabilities. Simultaneously, the paper explores how feminist movements in India have responded to these challenges, adapting their strategies to address the evolving realities of a neoliberal economy. Through an analysis of government reports, academic studies, archival records, and policy review, this research highlights the resilience and adaptability of feminist movements in advocating for gender justice. Case studies of organisations like the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) and campaigns such as #MeToo demonstrate how feminist activism has countered the adverse effects of economic reforms. However, challenges such as fragmentation within movements, co-optation by neoliberal agendas, and resistance from conservative forces persist. The study concludes with policy recommendations for fostering gender-sensitive economic frameworks, emphasising the need for sustained and intersectional feminist activism to achieve equitable outcomes in a neoliberal era.