SUPPRESSION OF WOMEN IN NAYANTARA SAHGAL RICH LIKE US

Abstract

This article analyzes Rich Like Us by Nayantara Sahgal as a strong criticism of political authoritarianism, gender inequality, and abuse of power during the Emergency period (1975–1977) declared by Indira Gandhi. The novel presents the Emergency not merely as a historical event but as a symbol of the weakening of democratic values in post-Independence India. It highlights how civil liberties were restricted, censorship was imposed, and honest officials were removed from their positions for refusing to support unjust political actions. Through characters such as Sonali and Rose, Sahgal portrays the suffering of sincere and principled individuals within a corrupt and male-dominated system. The novel further explores gender inequality by showing how women are constrained by patriarchal traditions in both domestic and professional spaces. Even educated and capable women struggle to protect their independence and identity. The character of Dev represents the misuse of political influence for personal gain, reflecting the moral decline encouraged by unchecked power. Overall, Rich Like Us presents the Emergency as more than a political crisis; it becomes a metaphor for democratic betrayal, ethical decay, and the urgent need to restore justice, equality, and moral responsibility in society.