In Her Defence: Ten Landmark Judgments on Women in the Armed Forces

by Navdeep Singh, Shivani Dasmahapatra

Few arenas in the annals of legal history have witnessed as profound a transformation as the realm of gender equality within the armed forces.

In Her Ten Landmark Judgments on Women in the Armed Forces is an anthology of essays and commentaries, in layperson terms, contributed by jurists, judges and academics on landmark constitutional court decisions of India that made a difference or brought about a positive change for women in the uniformed forces.

It is envisaged as not just a book, but a testament to the resilience, determination and legal triumphs of women who have paved the way for greater gender inclusivity and parity within India’s armed forces.

Meticulously curated to illuminate the pivotal judgments that have shaped the trajectory of women’s participation in the armed forces of India, this book stands as a cornerstone and embodiment of the judiciary’s unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of equality and justice.

288 pages, Paperback

Published August 26, 2025

Reviews

[Vineeth Nair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good insights on gender inequality in Armed Forces. And yes the battle for gender equality indeed lies in confronting the battles of the mind. A must read

[Prachipallavi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The wording is definitely very legal and having some kind of legal dictionary with you while reading it would be important - but this was a good look at the legal precedents of women's participation in the Indian Armed forces. As a person without a background in Law but just the basic understanding of the Indian constitution, it was also very illuminating to read about how constitutional principles were applied in these cases.

[Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"In Her Defence: Ten Landmark Judgments on Women in the Armed Forces" is a powerful anthology that sheds light on the legal battles that shaped gender equality in India’s armed forces. The book presents landmark court rulings that brought significant changes, making it an essential read for those interested in law, gender justice, and military service. Written in accessible language, the essays and commentaries by jurists, judges, and academics explore the systemic challenges faced by women in uniform and the legal victories that paved the way for greater inclusivity.

This collection of essays delves into critical court cases that addressed issues such as discrimination due to pregnancy, denial of permanent commission, and workplace harassment. Each chapter presents a compelling narrative of resilience, highlighting how legal interventions have played a crucial role in dismantling barriers. While the book celebrates progress, it also underscores the persistent gaps that need to be addressed to ensure true gender parity within the armed forces.

More than just a legal analysis, "In Her Defence" is a tribute to the courage of female officers who fought for their rightful place. The book is thought-provoking and, at times, unsettling, as it reveals the deep-seated biases that still exist. It serves as both an eye-opener and a call to action, urging policymakers and society to continue striving for equality. For anyone passionate about justice, military reforms, or women’s rights, this book is an inspiring and necessary read.

[Avdhesh Anand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now this is what true face of feminism should be... not that we witness on TV screens and debates. The collection of essays, observations and critical analysis of court proceedings, cases and judgements throw light on what were the actual landmark moments in the history of armed forces of India. For instance, the writers of the essays argue why should pregnancy be seen or perceived as an obstacle in the discharge of duties? It is natural with women to get pregnant after marriage and it cannot be seen as a ground for discrimination... and these judgements did put an end to the bias and discrimination that were there in the subconscious of such jobs otherwise perceived to be suitable for men only... I would say it is a timely collection and worth your time if you are interested in feminism, gender bias studies or just curious enough to know about the brave women who fought for their rightful place in the army!

[Arushi Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a scholarly collection of essays for those interested in assessing the growth and development in the social psyche regards to women empowerment, participation of women in the jobs considered for men, ideally, and specifically focused on the Indian army and women in it.
The essays by experts and legal luminaries assess various judgements delivered by the high courts and the Supreme Court of India from time to time upholding the constitutional equality and rights bestowed upon the Indian people despite their gender. Pregnancy, marriage, women anatomy, biological construct and any other thing tied to women cannot bar them from delivering at the job... this is what we should understand. This is what the book emphatically reminds us. As a woman myself, I felt pride in reading about the brave women who took on the system bias and won their respect and earned rightful positions.

[Agastya Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of its kind... though the genre is specific and content may be best suited to those who research and study in these fields, as a layman reader, I was more than involved while reading, interpreting and finding out the facts hidden in these judgements and their analyses. You cannot help yourself but wonder how far will these gender-biased thinking continue? Women can serve in the best positions... they have been. However, at times, courts have to intervene and honour women with their rightfully earned posts, honours and prestige. These essays and analytical writings cover the same. Pregnancy, marriage, their body type, biology.... everything tied to women is natural and does not hamper them from discharging their duties – on and off the turf. Navdeep and Shivani have done great picking these essays.

[Gautam Ahuja · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only enigma that remains after reading this book and going through all the nuances – what gives the Supreme court of India the authority to preside over and become the custodian of women rights? Can you tell me the name of the last CJI of India who was a woman? Or any woman CJI of India for that matter? Though this matter was raised by another reviewer as well, we have to understand that the bias against women and discrimination remains everywhere... and it's great seeing departments and authorities doing their part, albeit too late too little.
The collection is thought-provoking and a must read for readers who are interested in the historical debate of women and their services in the armed forces and about the brave women who did not accept NO as the answer.

[Sunil · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very specific book with a very specific purpose and a limited motif. The editors have included essays be legal experts who observe the decisions by courts regarding women in the armed forces. Within this defined ambit, the book serves its purpose very well. You will find details about various cases initiated by women who did not accept the arbitrary decision by the army administration and reached knocking the doors of the court to get justice. Though for a limited audience, the book's choice of essays and also an appended note section guiding you to the depths of these legal documents, the book becomes important for those who research and study gender representation in the Indian army.

[Rahul Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of its kind... Navdeep and Shivani has chosen the best representative essays to best present a visually appealing description of the plight that Indian women have to undergo if they aspire to join the Indian armed forces.. not only in the combative roles but also the supportive and other kinds of positions. The book discusses some of the landmark judgements that the courts of India have delivered to ensure the rightful and dignified positions. Do read this book if you like to know about what actually has been going on in terms of struggles by women for their space in the society in various walks of life.

[Akanksha Shrivastav · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, totally admire the editors of this book! They did a commendable job putting the best legal minds together and come up with these essays... curate and pick the best ones and put a powerful introduction!

Let me recap what I found astonishing in the book. Story of Neetu Bala case highlighted how discrimination can hamper someone personally. I could not help but empathize with the women who fight these battles daily. The essays provide a deeply humanizing account of the challenges women face in the armed forces. It’s a powerful reminder that behind every legal case is a human story. Recommended!

[Vidyananda Jha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book’s focus on the judiciary’s role in Annie Nagaraja was enlightening, as it is in many cases discussed in the book. It’s inspiring to see how courts can challenge systemic discrimination. The essays provide a detailed analysis of the legal reasoning behind these landmark judgments, emphasizing the need for substantive equality. A hopeful read for advocates of gender equality and all those who want to understand what it feels to be a woman in the arena of men-dominated service like armed forces.

[Ambika Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though is book is based on fact and precedents, it was an emotional one for me. Being a woman, I could instantly find the connection... do women still face discrimination at male-dominated work places such as army? Yes. Much has been done. Much needs to be done. I appreciate the editors and contributors who have made this collection of articles and observations possible. More and more readers should read it so that they can understand how discrimination and a biased rulebook may disregard what women have to contribute to the society.

[Rahul Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courts coming to the rescue may be one way of seeing at this book. However, the more important point to notice is how the resilient women took their battles to the highest authorities and came up victorious! Society needs to change and these brave women who did not take it lying down are the examples India needs to follow as far as women in the armed forces and combative roles are concerned. There must be a sensible path to be followed and it's time we honour women with their long-term due.
A must read book for anyone looking to get inspired!