Hindu Editorial Analyis : 13-November-2024

India, the world’s largest democracy, is at a crucial juncture in its journey towards true democracy. The involvement of women in political spheres is not just a matter of representation but a necessary step for achieving holistic development and a more inclusive society. As we approach 2024, the call for increased women’s participation in politics has never been more urgent.

Current Landscape: Women in Indian Politics

Women’s participation in India’s political system has been historically low. In the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament), women MPs represented only 5% to 10% of the total membership until 2004. This number increased marginally to 12% in 2014 and stands at just 14% in the 18th Lok Sabha today. Similarly, the Rajya Sabha has only 11% women representatives, and state legislative assemblies have an even lower average of about 9%.

However, progress has been made at the local level. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments of 1992-93 ensured one-third reservation for women in Panchayats (rural local governance) and Municipalities. But despite efforts, similar reservations in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies have not been successful.

Advantages of Women in Indian Politics

  1. Enhanced Representation: Women’s involvement ensures that issues specific to women, like healthcare, education, and gender equality, are better addressed in policies.
    • Example: Programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana were influenced by women leaders.
  2. Advancing Gender Equality: Women in politics are vital for ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all genders. Their presence leads to policies that promote fairness and equity.
  3. Diverse Perspectives: Women bring unique perspectives to the table, which helps create more comprehensive policies. Their involvement often leads to a stronger focus on social welfare.
  4. Economic Growth: Gender diversity in leadership roles contributes to better economic outcomes. Women leaders prioritize sectors like education and healthcare, crucial for sustainable growth.
  5. Empowerment and Role Models: Women in politics serve as role models, encouraging other women to pursue leadership roles. Leaders like Indira Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee have shown that women can make significant political impacts.

Challenges Women Face in Indian Politics

Despite advancements, women still face several challenges in politics:

  • Patriarchal Mindset: Deep-rooted gender biases and discrimination often undermine women’s contributions in politics.
  • Safety and Security: Women politicians are at higher risk of violence and harassment, which discourages many from pursuing political careers.
  • Balancing Multiple Roles: Many women face the challenge of balancing political careers with family responsibilities, limiting their political engagement.
  • Limited Resources: Women candidates often struggle to access financial resources and political networks, hindering their ability to campaign and win elections.

Expanding Women’s Participation

The 106th Constitutional Amendment reserves one-third of the seats in Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of Delhi for women. However, its implementation depends on the overdue Census, which needs to be conducted without delay to make this reservation effective by the 2029 general elections.

Grassroots Movements Supporting Women’s Political Involvement

Several grassroots movements are already paving the way for women’s political participation:

  • Self-Help Groups (SHGs): These groups, particularly in rural areas, empower women economically and socially, encouraging them to take on leadership roles.
  • Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs): The reservation for women in local governance through the 73rd Amendment has led to increased participation of women in Panchayats.
  • NGOs and Civil Society Organizations: Many organizations actively promote women’s political participation through training, advocacy, and legal support.

The Way Forward

To further promote women’s participation in politics, the following steps can be taken:

  1. Quotas and Reservations: Implementing and strengthening quotas for women in political parties and legislative bodies is essential to ensure a minimum level of representation.
  2. Capacity Building: Providing women with training and resources will equip them to navigate the political landscape effectively.
  3. Strengthening Support Networks: Empowering women through SHGs, NGOs, and community organizations can provide crucial resources and support.
  4. Policy Advocacy: Continued advocacy for policies that promote women’s participation in politics is crucial for creating an enabling environment.
  5. Public Awareness: Raising public awareness about the importance of women in politics can help change societal perceptions and encourage more women to enter politics.

Why In News

As the world’s largest democracy, India stands at a pivotal moment where the inclusion of women in political spheres is not just a matter of representation but a necessity for holistic development, social progress, and the deepening of true democracy. In 2024, the call for increased women’s participation in politics is louder and more urgent than ever, as the nation recognizes that gender-inclusive governance is key to addressing the complex challenges of our time and building a more equitable society for future generations.

MCQs about The Importance of Women’s Political Participation in India

  1. What is the main reason why India needs increased women’s participation in politics?
    A. To increase the number of political parties
    B. To promote gender equality and holistic development
    C. To ensure better international relations
    D. To support male political candidates
    Correct Answer: B. To promote gender equality and holistic development
    Explanation: The inclusion of women in politics is essential not only for representation but also for promoting gender equality, social progress, and the overall development of society. Women’s involvement in politics leads to more inclusive governance and addresses the needs of all segments of society.
  2. What percentage of women members currently occupy seats in the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament) as of the 18th Lok Sabha?
    A. 5%
    B. 12%
    C. 14%
    D. 20%
    Correct Answer: C. 14%
    Explanation: The current percentage of women Members of Parliament (MPs) in the 18th Lok Sabha is 14%. This is a marginal increase from previous years but still represents a very low level of representation in the country’s legislature.
  3. Which of the following grassroots initiatives has played a key role in increasing women’s political participation in India?
    A. Political Action Committees (PACs)
    B. Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
    C. Corporate Training Programs
    D. Political Lobbying Groups
    Correct Answer: B. Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
    Explanation: The role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in mobilizing women at the grassroots level. These groups, especially in rural areas, focus on economic empowerment and social issues, which naturally extend to encouraging women’s participation in political leadership.
  4. What is the purpose of the 106th Constitutional Amendment in India?
    A. To introduce a new reservation system for minorities
    B. To reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women
    C. To reduce the voting age to 18
    D. To ensure equal pay for women in the workforce
    Correct Answer: B. To reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women
    Explanation: The 106th Constitutional Amendment reserves one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of Delhi for women. This reservation aims to increase female representation in India’s legislative bodies, although its implementation depends on the results of the next Census.

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