Question

Write down in brief the contribution of Raja Ram Mohan Roy for the emancipation of women.

Answer 1

Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a great social reformer of 19th century. He was of the view that society cannot do progress unless women are not given equal rights as compared to males.

1. He propagated to eradicate Sati system from society. He convinced the government of William Bentick that there was no place of Sati system in ancient religious books or shastras. Due to his reasons and efforts, the government passed an Act in 1829 and declared it illegal.
2. He wrote many essays for the welfare of women.
3. He criticised child marriage and polygamy and also opposed the girl infanticide.
4. He raised his voice against purdah system and told that it is one of the largest obstacle in the way of women progress.
5. He propagated for women education. He was also in favour of widow remarriage.
6. He also stressed on giving share to women from ancestral property.