Revisiting Intersectionality: Theoretical Debates and Their Viability in the Indian Context

Abstract

Intersectionality, introduced within the Black feminist movement, gained momentum in feminist, sociological, and political identity-based discourses as a theoretical framework for its focus on women’s intersectional experiences of violence, often shaped by other dimensions of their identities, such as race and class. While the framework addresses social power structures and lived experiences, concerns have been raised due to its generalizability, ambiguity, and catch-all nature. This paper explores critical voices from India, questioning whether intersectionality remains a viable theoretical approach within Indian feminist discourse. It traces the contextual origin of this concept and its arrival and validity in the Indian context. The paper argues that women’s lived experiences should not be treated as universal; instead, they must be considered unique, shaped by various marginalized social identities that women embody. The paper contributes to ongoing debates about the relevance and adaptability of intersectionality in diverse cultural and sociopolitical landscapes.