The legislature that first conferred the symbol and instrument of equal citizenship on women

Q. The legislature that first conferred the symbol and instrument of equal citizenship on women or allowed women to be represented in the Legislative Council was the:

(a) Madras Legislative Council

(b) Bihar Legislative Council

(c) Bombay Legislative Council

(d) none of the above

Ans: (a) Madras Legislative Council

Explanation: The legislature that first conferred the symbol and instrument of equal citizenship on women or allowed women to be represented in the Legislative Council was the (a) Madras Legislative Council.

The Madras Legislative Council, also known as the Madras Presidency Council, played a pioneering role in granting women the right to vote and be represented in the legislative council. In 1921, the Madras Legislative Council passed the Madras Legislative Council (Extension of Franchise to Women) Act, which allowed women to become members and participate in the legislative council.

This act marked a significant step towards gender equality and political representation for women in India. It conferred upon women the symbol and instrument of equal citizenship by recognizing their right to vote and be elected as members of the legislative council. This development in Madras paved the way for subsequent reforms and progress in women’s political rights and representation in other parts of India.