Chhattisgarh adopts gender-neutral language in adoption law

The Chhattisgarh government has updated its Adoption Act, changing the term "adopted son" to "adopted child" in all official documents. This change aims to promote gender equality and remove bias from adoption laws. State Finance Minister OP Choudhary stated that the original 1908 law reflected a patriarchal view by only using the term "son." The new amendment seeks to ensure gender neutrality and show respect for women. This reform is inspired by influential women in the state who challenged traditional roles. Social worker V Polamma welcomed the change, noting that it aligns with past reforms that granted daughters equal property rights. Activist Vibha Singh emphasized that this amendment sends a strong message against gender bias in adoption practices. From January 2021 to February 2025, there were 417 adoptions in Chhattisgarh, with 246 of those involving girls. The term "adopted son" was used in all adoption documents, regardless of the child's gender, before this amendment. Despite this progress, gender-biased language remains in other official forms and everyday usage. Terms like "I, son of..." are still common, indicating a need for further reforms to challenge male-centric language and attitudes in Indian society.