Why quotas alone won’t increase women’s representation
The article discusses the limitations of quotas in increasing women's political representation in India. While women have become a significant electoral force, their participation in active political roles remains low due to structural barriers. The findings suggest that without addressing deeper inequalities and biases, quotas alone will not lead to substantial improvements in women's political engagement.
- ▪A Lokniti-CSDS study indicates that while reservation may expand opportunities, it does not ensure sustained political careers for women.
- ▪Around 44% of women respondents believe political parties prefer male candidates over equally qualified women.
- ▪About 22% of women identify patriarchal structures as the biggest obstacle to their political participation.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
As debate around the Women’s Reservation Bill resurfaces, the central question is no longer whether quotas will increase representation, but whether they can overcome the deeper structural barriers that limit women’s participation in politics. Evidence from a Lokniti-CSDS study suggests that while reservation may expand opportunities, it does not by itself ensure that more women are able to sustain political careers. Over the past decades, Indian women have become a significant electoral force. However, this rise in participation has not translated into representation. Women remain underrepresented as candidates and elected representatives, highlighting a gap between voting and political presence.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu.
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