Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Even as we hurtle towards the stars with cutting-edge technology, a stark reality persists on Earth: gender disparity. In India, this manifests acutely in the realm of sports, where aspiring female athletes face a barrage of societal pressures. Questions like, "Will she abandon her studies for Kabaddi?" or "When is marriage on the horizon?" are weaponized against their dreams. The specter of harassment in a new city and financial constraints for training further fuel these anxieties. These are not just questions for the aspiring athlete, but barbs aimed directly at parents who dare to support their daughters' ambitions.
The very notion of a “weaker sex” clings stubbornly to Indian society, reflected in the skewed sex ratio itself. This outdated mentality acts as a formidable wall against women's progress, particularly in sports. This research delves into the challenges faced by Indian women athletes, highlighting the roadblocks that hinder their pursuit of excellence.
The study goes beyond simply identifying the problems. It delves into the legal framework - the constitution and other laws - and proposes their effective implementation. The goal? To dismantle these entrenched biases at the grassroots level, paving the way for a future where women athletes stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts. The research culminates in concrete suggestions for creating a more equitable playing field.