Ask any Indian teenager if they want a career in politics, and they’ll make a face that says it all. The translation would be: “I’m sorry, but I think I can do better than hanging out with obese upper caste men, making fake promises, travelling in a Fortuner with a saffron cloth on my shoulder, Rajnigandha in my mouth, and blood on my hands. No offence, though!”
This blog will provide a brief overview of the history of women in politics, their current status, the underlying issues, and potential solutions for improvement.
History
Although ancient Indian texts confined elite women to domestic roles and prevented their entry into political spheres, numerous women defied these codes, mostly indirectly, to play a crucial role in the history of politics.
The Arthashastra recognizes women’s political representation. Draupadi from Mahabharat actively participated in the debate to decide whether the Pandavas should go to war. Decent evidence of women ambassadors, advisors, and bodyguards during the Chola rule has been mentioned in ancient Tamil Sangam poetry.
Centuries later, during the Mughal rule, the wives and mothers of nawabs played a vital role in politics. Baber, the founder of the Mughal Dynasty, received training in warfare and diplomatic affairs from his grandmother, Daulat Begam. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s wife, Begum Hazrat Mahal, challenged the British when their kingdom was annexed. Unfortunately, these were primarily unofficial political roles played by women.
Eventually, with the introduction of print media and women’s participation in numerous debates associated with consent and child marriage, the political ambience reasonably changed. After the Partition of Bengal in 1905, the agitated nationalist movement also encouraged the political upliftment of women. This facilitated Sarojini Naidu, Hirabhai Tata, and Mithan Lam to raise their voices for greater participation of Indian women in politics including their right to vote.
Disappointing Statistics
In 1947, when the Indian Constitution was drafted, women got the right to vote. But sadly, we still didn’t hold many political leadership roles.
What ‘really’ is the problem?
In the past decades, corrupt politicians worldwide, especially those in our own country, have successfully poisoned the majority’s perception of politics as a whole. This has led to the low representation of women in politics, and here are the key reasons:
Politics as a Dirty Game: The perception of politics being a dirty game discourages women from gaining support from their families, who worry about their safety.
Patriarchal Mindset: Deep-rooted misogyny in people’s minds influences how they view a woman’s ability to lead in politics.
Lack of Education: Limited access to education hinders women’s participation in politics.
Limited Representation in Political Parties: The underrepresentation of women makes it challenging for them to climb the political ladder.
Violence and Harassment: One in every six tweets about Indian women politicians is abusive. (Indians For Amnesty Internation Trust, 2020)
How can things get better?
Reservation of Seats: The bill for reserving seats for women must be implemented effectively.
Education and Training: Empowering women through education and training increases their representation in politics significantly.
Address Violence against Women in Politics: This involves raising awareness and creating a safe environment for women.
Address Social and Cultural Barriers: Implement campaigns, education, awareness programs, and social reform initiatives.
Most of these measures require action from those in power. On an individual level, you can research and support women who fight for good causes by VOTING for them.
We’re working towards change and we want you to join us because the fall of the patriarchy would make a magnificent season.