Paper
Exploring Workplace Experiences: A study among indigenous women in West Bengal, India
presenters
Sumana Basumata
Nationality: Indian
Residence: India
Presence:Face to Face/ On Site
Keywords:
Indigenous women, workplace, West Bengal
Abstract:
There is a significant lack of studies regarding experiences of indigenous women at workplace in India. Constitutional provisions and affirmative actions have led to increased representation of indigenous women in formal sectors. However, upon entering formal workplaces, they continue to face prejudicial treatment. Despite documented incidents of workplace discrimination, there remains a notable dearth in research-based literature exploring the specific experiences of indigenous women in formal sectors. Moreover, while discrimination in the workplace is emphasized, identity-based experiences remain largely unexplored. The study aims to address this gap by investigating the experiences of indigenous women in formal sectors by employing the intersectional framework. It seeks to contextualize their intersecting identities at both personal and professional levels. Additionally, it will investigate institutional norms and practices. It will also uncover societal structures and ideologies that impact the experiences of indigenous women and explore their everyday negotiations at workplace. Focused on the context of West Bengal, India, this article would critically examine whether existing provisions genuinely contribute to the upliftment and equality of indigenous peoples or merely serve to display organizational diversity.