Democracy flourishes when it embodies inclusivity, representation, and diversity. For a political system to be genuinely democratic, it must reflect the voices and aspirations of all its people. In a nation like India—home to over 1.4 billion individuals, nearly half of whom are women—the stark underrepresentation of women in politics undermines the very essence of democratic governance. While India has made significant strides in various spheres, its political landscape remains overwhelmingly male-dominated. If democracy in India is to realize its full potential, it must actively embrace and encourage the participation of women in politics, ensuring that governance is truly representative of its vast and diverse populace.
The Current State of
Women in Indian Politics
India, the world’s largest democracy, has historically produced exceptional female leaders, from Indira Gandhi, the nation’s first and only female Prime Minister, to powerful regional figures such as Jayalalithaa, Mamata Banerjee, and Mayawati. Despite these notable successes, women continue to be a minority in legislative and decision-making positions.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, only 78 women were elected to the 543-seat Parliament, constituting a mere 14.36% representation—an all-time high, yet still far below global standards. The situation at the state level is even more concerning, with many legislative assemblies featuring less than 10% female representation. When contrasted with countries like Rwanda, where women hold 61% of parliamentary seats, and New Zealand, where nearly half of the Parliament comprises women, India’s gender imbalance in politics becomes glaringly evident.
Why Women’s Political
Representation Matters
The marginalization of women from politics is not merely a gender issue but a fundamental democratic concern. A robust democracy cannot function effectively if a significant portion of its population is excluded from key decision-making processes. Women’s participation in politics is crucial for multiple reasons, including policy enhancement, governance transparency, and the strengthening of democratic values.
Women bring unique perspectives and priorities to governance. Studies have consistently shown that female leaders tend to focus more on issues related to healthcare, education, social welfare, and gender equality—areas often neglected in male-dominated political environments. The inclusion of women in politics results in more inclusive policymaking, ensuring that marginalized communities gain better access to essential resources and opportunities.
Furthermore, increased female representation in governance has been linked to lower levels of corruption. Several reports indicate that women in leadership roles are more likely to advocate for transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. As such, a government that includes more women is not only fairer but also more responsive to public needs.
Beyond policy benefits, a truly democratic system necessitates gender balance in governance. Excluding women from political participation contradicts the fundamental principles of equality and justice that democracy seeks to uphold. Increased female representation fosters stronger democratic institutions, inspires future generations, and creates a more participatory political landscape.
Challenges Hindering
Women’s Political Participation in India
Despite the critical
need for women’s involvement in politics, various structural, societal, and
economic barriers continue to hinder their representation.
One of the primary obstacles is the deeply entrenched patriarchal mindset that dominates Indian society. Politics has long been perceived as a male domain, and many women are discouraged from pursuing leadership roles due to societal expectations that prioritize domestic responsibilities over public service. From an early age, girls are conditioned to adopt traditional gender roles, limiting their aspirations in political spheres.
Additionally, Indian political parties, despite their rhetorical commitments to gender equality, have largely failed to promote women within their ranks. Securing a party ticket remains an uphill battle for female candidates, with women often being assigned to unwinnable constituencies. Male-dominated power structures within parties make it difficult for women to rise through the ranks and gain influence.
Another significant deterrent is the prevalence of violence and intimidation against women in politics. Female politicians in India face higher levels of harassment, threats, and violence compared to their male counterparts. From character assassination to physical intimidation, these challenges discourage many capable women from pursuing political careers. The lack of institutional protections and legal enforcement further exacerbates this issue.
Financial constraints also pose a major hurdle. Indian elections are highly expensive, and women often struggle to secure the necessary funding to mount competitive campaigns. With limited access to political networks and financial support, female candidates face significant disadvantages when competing against well-funded male counterparts.
Steps Towards Greater
Female Political Participation
Addressing the gender
gap in Indian politics requires both institutional reforms and societal shifts.
Several key measures can help enhance women’s representation in governance.
One of the most critical steps is the long-pending Women’s Reservation Bill, which proposes reserving 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. The successful implementation of similar reservations at the panchayat level has dramatically increased female participation in local governance. Extending this model to higher legislative bodies could create a transformative impact on national politics.
Political parties must also take proactive steps to promote gender parity by ensuring that at least 30-40% of their candidates are women. Internal party structures should facilitate leadership training, financial assistance, and mentorship programs to support aspiring female politicians.
Moreover, addressing violence against women in politics is crucial. Stricter laws must be enforced to protect female politicians from harassment, threats, and physical attacks. Establishing fast-track courts to handle cases of political violence against women, along with implementing robust security measures, will encourage greater female participation in governance.
Economic empowerment and education are equally important. Ensuring equal access to education, leadership training, and financial support will equip women with the skills and confidence needed to enter politics. Scholarships, leadership development programs, and networking platforms should be created to support women aspiring to political careers.
Finally, a broader cultural shift is needed to challenge traditional gender biases. Encouraging families to support their daughters’ political aspirations, promoting positive media portrayals of women in leadership, and celebrating female political role models can help break down societal stereotypes and foster a more inclusive political environment.
A Stronger Democracy
with Women in Power
A democracy cannot thrive when half of its population remains underrepresented. The inclusion of women in Indian politics is not merely a matter of gender equality; it is a matter of better governance, stronger policies, and a more representative democracy. Countries with higher female political participation have consistently demonstrated better performance in social welfare, economic growth, and governance transparency.
India, with its
deep-rooted democratic traditions, stands at a pivotal juncture. It can either
continue with slow, incremental progress or take bold steps to ensure women play
an active and equal role in shaping the nation’s future. The road to gender
parity in politics is long, but the time for change is now. Breaking barriers,
challenging stereotypes, and opening the doors of legislative institutions to
more women will not only strengthen Indian democracy but also create a more
just and equitable society for future generations.
(Views
are personal. Email:dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
