Cultural Traditions and Women’s Rights in India: Navigating CEDAW Principles with Respect to Reproductive Rights

Reproductive rights, fundamental to human rights, enable individuals to freely decide on the number and spacing of their children, intertwining with socio-economic, religious, and cultural influences. In India, these rights are shaped by societal norms and are critical in advancing women's broader human rights. A woman-centered approach to reproductive health acknowledges women as autonomous beings capable of making informed decisions beyond biological constraints. This perspective is essential for recognizing women's rights to reproductive autonomy, closely linked to their societal status and legal capacity. Reproductive rights encompass the ability to make choices about reproduction, including pregnancy continuation or termination and selecting contraception methods. These rights are vital for empowering women to make personal health decisions, emphasizing the importance of autonomy and informed choice in reproductive health.