In the world’s largest democracy, Indian women are breaking through the glass ceiling, shedding light on the often-overlooked sphere of electoral politics. For centuries, women in India have fought for their rights, and now, the tables are turning as they take center stage in shaping the country’s future. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections saw a record-high turnout of women voters, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political terrain. This phenomenon is not a momentary aberration but a culmination of years of activism, education, and empowerment.
From Marginalization to Mainstream
Traditionally, Indian women have been underrepresented in politics, with women’s representation in the Lok Sabha being a meager 11.8% as of 2019. However, this figure is increasing rapidly, with women candidates contesting more elections and winning seats. In the 2019 polls, 78 women contested the election, and 65 won, including 59 from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and six from the Congress party. This surge in women’s participation has been driven by various factors, including increased access to education and economic empowerment.
The Impact of Education
Women Voters in Indian Elections (Image via Getty)Access to education has been a crucial factor in enabling Indian women to participate more effectively in the electoral process. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the literacy rate among Indian women has increased from 34.6% in 1991 to 65.5% in 2011. This rise in literacy has equipped women with the necessary skills and confidence to engage in politics. Additionally, the expansion of education has also led to an increase in the number of working women, further boosting their economic independence and, subsequently, their political participation.
Empowering Marginalized Communities
Women’s participation in Indian elections is not limited to the urban elite. Rural areas, where women constitute a significant proportion of the population, are also witnessing a surge in female candidates and voters. For instance, in the 2019 polls, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) party won 37 of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state of Tamil Nadu, with women candidates playing a crucial role in the party’s victory. Similarly, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won 10 seats, with a majority of its winners being women from rural areas.
The Role of Political Parties
Indian political parties have played a significant role in promoting women’s participation in elections. Some parties have made a conscious effort to field more women candidates, while others have implemented pro-women policies to increase female involvement in politics. For instance, the ruling BJP published a list of 100 women candidates for the 2019 polls, while the Congress party announced that it would reserve 50% of its tickets for women. These efforts have not only increased women’s representation but also sent a strong message about the importance of female participation in Indian politics.
The Future of Indian Electoral Politics
The rise of women voters and candidates in Indian elections is not a fleeting phenomenon but a harbinger of a new era in Indian politics. As women become more empowered and educated, they are likely to play a vital role in shaping the country’s future. This shift is essential for addressing issues such as inequality, poverty, and social justice, which disproportionately affect women in India. As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, it will be crucial for political parties to continue their efforts to empower women and promote their participation in the electoral process.