WOMEN’S ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION IN INDIA: ISSUES, CONSTRAINTS, AND POLICY INTERVENTIONS

Women’s electoral participation constitutes a critical dimension of democratic inclusiveness and political equality. In India, although constitutional guarantees have ensured formal political rights for women since independence, their substantive participation in electoral politics remains uneven. This paper examines the key social, economic, cultural, and institutional factors influencing women’s participation as voters, candidates, and political representatives. Using illustrative trend-based indicators, the study highlights a persistent gap between women’s increasing voter turnout and their limited representation in legislative institutions. The paper further analyses existing policy measures and proposes strategic interventions aimed at enhancing women’s political empowerment. It argues that achieving equitable representation requires institutional reforms complemented by sustained socio-cultural transformation and political commitment.