Section Article

Women’s Role and Challenges in Political Participation in India
Author(s): Himanshu Kashyup

Abstract
The participation of women in politics is a cornerstone of inclusive democracy and social justice. In India where women constitute nearly half of the population their involvement in political life has been both significant and constrained. Since independence women have contributed as voters leaders legislators and activists. Landmark achievements include universal adult suffrage reservation of seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions and growing visibility of women in political offices. Yet despite these advances women remain underrepresented in national and state legislatures face structural and cultural barriers and struggle against patriarchal norms that limit their political agency.