Gender Sensitization Workshop Conducted For Family Court Counsellors

The workshop aimed to enhance participants' understanding of gender as a social construct, identify entrenched stereotypes, and develop awareness of how gendered perceptions influence both personal interactions and professional conduct. The overarching objective was to promote equitable, unbiased practices in family court counselling.

Inaugural Session

The programme commenced with an inaugural address by Ms. Rekha Agnihotri, Director, Judicial Training & Research Institute, U.P. She observed that gender sensitization is an inclusive concept rooted in sensitivity towards humanity, emphasising that it requires awareness and empathy towards both men and women. Highlighting the pivotal role played by counsellors at the initial stages of matrimonial dispute resolution, she stressed the need to recognise and address ingrained biases and stereotypical thinking to uphold dignity and equality during counselling proceedings. She expressed hope that the workshop would encourage counsellors to adopt gender-sensitive perspectives in their professional roles.

Academic Sessions

The academic sessions were conducted by Prof. Roli Misra, Dr. Prashant Shukla, and Dr. Sonali Roy Choudhury, members of the Gender Sensitization (GenSen) Cell, University of Lucknow. The sessions relied on discussions, group participation, and reflective exercises to enable counsellors to reassess assumptions and attitudes.

In her session titled “Gender in Society (Patriarchy and Stereotypes)”, Prof. Roli Misra examined the role of social structures and institutions in shaping gender roles. She discussed the prevalence of stereotypes, their impact across domestic and professional spaces, and methods to identify and counter unconscious bias. Participants actively shared experiences on how societal expectations influence behaviour and decision-making in Family Courts.

Dr. Prashant Shukla, in his session on “Gender Sensitization in Ancient India”, traced the historical evolution of patriarchal norms and their continuing influence on contemporary social and legal systems. The session encouraged participants to critically examine deep-rooted power structures and their relevance in dispute-resolution processes.

In the session titled “The Nature of Matrimonial Disputes and Their Recourse Through Legal Lens”, Dr. Sonali Roy Choudhury discussed common issues arising in matrimonial disputes, their social and gender dimensions, and the statutory remedies available under existing legal frameworks. Her presentation offered practical insights relevant to family court counselling and adjudication.

The workshop concluded with a valedictory session, following which certificates of participation were distributed to all attendees.