Q. (Se above questions) Is there an inyan (importance and significance) for women to attend shul on Purim to listen to the Megila, or could they just the same arrange the reading at home, that would be very significant in these pandemic days?
A. The need for all to attend shul for Megila reading is based on the mitzva of ‘Berov Am Hadrass Melech’ or the King is honored when many attend, as mentioned in Shulchan Aruch (O.H. 690: 18). From Mishna Berura (689: 1) would seem that there is no obligation for women to attend shul to listen to the reading of the Megila as there is for men. Therefore Mishna Berura (ibid. 17) rules that it is better for them to stay home and take care of the young children, who may otherwise disturb others if they attend shul.
However, some Poskim disagree and they maintain that women are also included in the mitzva of ‘Berov Am Hadrass Melech,’ and should attend shul when keeping proper conditions. (Mishne Halochos 4: 82. Olas Reiya 83, See Piskei Teshuvos 689: 1).
Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that on normal times it is indeed better for women to attend, not necessarily so in our Covid days.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a