A robust democracy rests on two core pillars: inclusivity and representation. Yet, despite half the global population being women, their participation in governance remains inadequate. This gap isn’t merely a matter of numbers; it strikes at the heart of modern democratic principles. In a world where each citizen’s voice should have equal weight, can we truly claim to uphold democratic values if a significant portion of society’s voices are left out?
India, as the world’s largest democracy, is a compelling example. Women constitute nearly half of the population, but their representation in legislative bodies rarely reflects this reality. The recent passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a step forward, aiming to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. However, reservation alone will not bring about the profound change needed. True empowerment requires more than numbers; it demands a shift in both societal attitudes and institutional practices that have long sidelined women from the corridors of power.
The importance of women in politics extends beyond symbolic representation. Studies and real-world examples show that when women lead, the policy agenda expands to encompass a broader range of issues. Women leaders are often more attuned to topics like healthcare, education, social security, and family welfare. They introduce diverse perspectives that challenge male-dominated norms, resulting in more inclusive and equitable policies. For instance, countries with higher proportions of women in leadership roles have shown improved focus on social issues and better outcomes in areas like education and child welfare. When women participate in decision-making, society witnesses policies that resonate with a wider array of needs and aspirations.
Yet, the issue is not merely about participation but about creating spaces where women can lead and influence decision-making processes. Political parties and institutions must encourage women to assume leadership roles, not as token representatives but as powerful voices shaping the political landscape. Unfortunately, in many cases, “women’s empowerment” has been reduced to a slogan used to attract votes. The very essence of empowerment, which means decentralizing power and authority, is often overshadowed by tokenistic gestures and superficial measures.
A higher presence of women in politics challenges stereotypes and empowers future generations. It sends a powerful message that politics is not an exclusive male domain, inspiring young women to step forward as active participants in democracy. Without this transformation, we risk perpetuating the myth that men alone can lead, make policies, and shape nations. True democracy is one where every citizen — regardless of gender — feels represented, engaged, and empowered.
For India to live up to its democratic ideals, it must ensure that women are not just voters but also powerful voices in governance. This requires more than legislative mandates; it demands a societal shift to recognize and value women as leaders. A democracy that truly reflects its people must prioritize women’s political participation, moving beyond tokenism toward genuine, structural change. Only then can we claim to be a democracy of the people, by the people, and for all the people.