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:
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — 2 and 3 only
The Rakhmabai case (1884) was a landmark litigation concerning a child marriage where Rakhmabai refused to live with her husband Dadaji Bhikaji, who then filed a suit for restitution of conjugal rights. The case sparked nationwide debate on child marriage and age of consent, ultimately contributing to the Age of Consent Act, 1891.
❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: The case did not revolve around women's right to education; though Rakhmabai was educated and later became a doctor, the legal dispute concerned her marital obligations.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: The case generated significant public discourse on child marriage and directly influenced the passage of the Age of Consent Act, 1891, which raised the age of consent from 10 to 12 years.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: The litigation was initiated by her husband seeking restitution of conjugal rights after Rakhmabai refused to cohabit with him following their child marriage when she was 11 years old.
📝 Short Notes: Rakhmabai Case and Social Reforms
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1884-1888 |
| Parties | Dadaji Bhikaji (husband) vs Rakhmabai (wife) |
| Core Issue | Restitution of conjugal rights in a child marriage |
| Marriage Age | Rakhmabai was married at age 11; refused to cohabit as an adult |
| Court Decision | Initially ruled in favor of husband; later Rakhmabai was allowed to avoid cohabitation by paying compensation |
| Social Impact | Sparked national debate on child marriage, women's rights, and consent |
| Legislative Outcome | Age of Consent Act, 1891 - raised age of consent from 10 to 12 years |
| Rakhmabai's Later Life | Became one of India's first practicing female doctors; studied medicine in London |
Question 3 of 3 Social Reformers and Women's Issues
Practice PYQ questions from this topic across all years
Who among the following was associated as Secretary with Hindu Female School which la...
All questions in this topic completed!