FAQ on Women’s Representation

What is status of women’s representation in Indian politics?

Women represents about 10.5 % of all Members of Parliament as of October 2021.

Why is women’s political participation important?

Women’s political participation is important for establishment of credibility and legitimacy of parliament national assemblies and local governments.

What is the female participation in India?

Female participation in India is just under 31%.

What is the root cause of gender discrimination in India?

Indian society is a man-centric society, which is also a  root cause of gender discrimination in India. the patriarchal concept of Indian society makes women economically dependent on their male counterparts, which is itself a cause of gender disparity. 30% of the population in India is poor, of which, 70% of them are women. Gender discrimination in India had caused educational stagnation in girls.

Does gender discrimination still exist?

Gender discrimination is prevalent in most societies and has a continuing impact on societal norms. Males are generally better placed in social, economic, and political hierarchies. Whereas, women are still struggling for their social and political rights.

Which countries have the best representation of women in politics?

Some of the countries with a higher representation of women in public life are Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Sweden, for example, has a good track record of female representation in most institutions. Women currently make up 47.5% of Parliament members, 54.5% of ministers, and approximately 43% of municipal councilors in Sweden.

What is the meaning of women’s right to vote?

It is not only a ‘Right to Vote’, but it also gives women an equal right to participate in decision-making, political activism, political consciousness, and so on. Women in India vote and run for public office and political parties at a lower rate than men. however, it still signifies the equal participation of men and women in the development of the nation.

Gender division in our society is seen as a natural and unchangeable concept. The roles of men and women in society have a hierarchical division according to their physical and social strengths, it is thought that men are biologically more suitable for technical and labor works, whereas, women are capable of household work only. But, More than a biological, it seems to be a social concept, enforced by some social expectations and stereotypes that are present in our society.