Intersectional Socio-Cultural Barriers To Women’s Political Participation In India - A Multi-Dimensional Analysis
- IJLLR Journal
- Feb 6
- 1 min read
Sivaranjani C, LLM (International Law), Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, Indian Institution of Technology, Kharagpur
ABSTRACT
This paper explores the intersectional socio-cultural barriers to women’s political participation in India, analyzing how various identities—such as gender, caste, religion, socioeconomic status, and regional background— intersect to create complex obstacles. Although India has made significant progress through legal frameworks and policy initiatives, a persistent underrepresentation of women in political spheres remains. A recent milestone in this area is the enactment of the 128th Constitutional Amendment Act in 2024, which amends Articles 239AA, 330A, and 332A to reserve seats specifically for women in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Delhi Legislative Assembly. This amendment marks a significant step toward gender equity by establishing direct legislative representation for women, reinforcing their right to participate in the nation’s decision-making process. The paper concludes that while the 128th Amendment Act is a progressive step toward gender parity in politics, further actions are required at both policy and grassroots levels to address the socio- cultural challenges that remain, especially for women from intersecting marginalized identities. Hence, this paper focuses on the intersectional approach essential in creating a favorable political environment for women.
Keywords: Women, Political Participation, Socio-Cultural Barrier, Gender, Equity
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