Q. In the context of Indian history, the Rakhmabai case of 1884 revolved around
- women’s right to gain education
- age of consent
- restitution of conjugal rights
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer – (b) 2 and 3 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2020 GS Paper
Explanation:
The Rakhmabai Case of 1884
The Rakhmabai case of 1884 is a landmark case in Indian legal history, particularly in the context of women’s rights. This case revolved around two main issues:
1. Age of Consent
The case highlighted the issue of child marriage and the age of consent in India. Rakhmabai was married at the age of 11 but refused to live with her husband, Dadaji Bhikaji, arguing that she was married off at a young age without her consent. The case brought to the forefront the debate on the legal age of consent for marriage in India.
2. Restitution of Conjugal Rights
The case was essentially about Dadaji Bhikaji suing Rakhmabai for restitution of conjugal rights, which means he sought a legal order for Rakhmabai to resume marital relations and live with him. The case thus revolved around the legal rights of husbands over their wives and the autonomy of women in marital relationships.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
(b) 2 and 3 only
