The Department of Immigration’s recent policy proposal has not only garnered wide criticism but has also revealed policy makers’ orthodox and parochial mindset and their deliberate intention to reinforce patriarchy and subjugate women. The apparent intent seems to be to curb human trafficking
by restricting travel of women below 40 unless they show consent from their family members—mostly male relatives, and from the concerned ward office. The government, under public pressure, has reportedly withdrawn the policy.
However, this withdrawal does not solve the problem as it is only a representative case of public choices, which do not only restrict women’s agency, movement, and autonomy but also subvert the constitutional principle that every person has the right to live with dignity