October 18, 2011
A slum is a densely populated urban area which is characterized by a generally low standard of living. A slum forms as homes are slowly subdivided into cramped tenement apartments, and the population becomes highly concentrated. At the same time, access to services like healthcare, fresh food, and basic sanitation may start to become restricted, creating filth.
With a view of analysing the gender issues of present day slums, the Gender Sensitization group of the Legal Aid Society visited the Kali Basti , a slum located in Uttam Nagar East, Delhi. The objective of the visit was to identify the issues prevalent in the slum with regard to gender specific roles.
An understanding of household gender sensitivities is crucial in demonstrating issues related to equality. Programmes to encourage girl child education have emphasised how important education is as a tool for promoting gender equality. Pushpa, 15, who lives with her mother and two brothers, revealed that she had to quit her studies due to financial constraints. “Financially, there were issues at home and my parents were not able to afford my education,” she said. She had a younger brother whose education was considered more important. Preference was given to the male child as there’s a deeply entrenched belief in India that the men in the family have to be educated first as he is considered as bread winner of family. Her elder brother is the sole bread winner in the family and in the course of our interview, she expressed a desire to learn a few skills which would enable her to find a job, and support her family.
