About Us
Voices raised for four decades.
Aawaaz-e-Niswaan (AeN) is one of India's oldest feminist organisations, working since 1985 to promote gender equality, women's rights, education, leadership and economic independence.
Our Story
Born of the Shah Bano case.
Our journey began in the wake of the historic Shah Bano case, which highlighted the discrimination faced by Muslim women under personal laws. Our founder, Shehnaaz Shaikh, challenged unilateral divorce in the Supreme Court after experiencing injustice herself. Along with other women facing similar struggles, she created a support network that eventually became Aawaaz-e-Niswaan.
For over four decades, we have worked to ensure that women — especially Muslim women — have access to justice, education, leadership opportunities, and the confidence to build independent lives. While our work focuses on the unique challenges faced by Muslim women, our vision is rooted in equality, dignity, secular values, and solidarity across caste, class and religion.
Our Vision
Dignity, equality, freedom.
We envision a society where every woman lives with dignity, equality, freedom, and the confidence to make decisions about her own life.
Through education, legal empowerment, community leadership and collective action, Aawaaz-e-Niswaan continues to create spaces where women are heard, respected, and empowered to lead change.
Our History
Milestones in the movement.
Since our founding, Aawaaz-e-Niswaan has played an active role in India's women's movement.
Founded
Established in response to the Shah Bano judgment and the growing need for Muslim women's rights.
National Conferences of Autonomous Women
Led discussions on gender justice, minority rights, secularism, sexuality and religious fundamentalism.
Muslim Women's Rights Network
Established the MWRN after a national conference attended by 25+ organisations and 245 participants.
Testimonies before the Personal Law Board
Advocated for the Muslim Personal Law Board to hear Muslim women's testimonies on personal law issues.
Gujarat survivor support
Worked with national and international partners to support survivors of communal violence and document gender-based violence.
Mumbra Resource Centre
Opened a women's resource centre offering education, scholarships, a library and safe spaces for girls and women.
Permanent Kurla office
Inaugurated our office in Kurla and launched the "Sculpting Lives" photography project for survivors.
Fundamentalism & Law conference
Brought together scholars, activists, lawyers and community leaders on a national platform.
Women's Cycle Rally
A landmark rally in Mumbra challenging gender stereotypes and reclaiming public spaces for women.
Thousands reached
We continue working with thousands of women and girls across Mumbai — promoting justice, equality, leadership and community resilience.