 "From margins to mainstream: How women’s political participation in Jammu and Kashmir is evolving")
The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir presents a unique set of challenges for women’s empowerment. Historically, the representation of women in political roles in the region has been limited. Before the 1972 elections, political arenas were predominantly male dominated, with no female candidates successfully securing seats. The 1972 elections marked the beginning of female political participation, though the success rate of female candidates remained minimal. Subsequent elections, including those in 1977, saw a slight increase in female candidates, but their success remained low. The 1983 elections showed a marginal rise in female candidates, yet their representation was still limited.
By 2002, women occupied just 8 per cent of the seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, highlighting only modest progress. The year 2011 saw a rise in female candidates for panchayats, but women’s representation in higher positions, such as sarpanchs, remains limited. The 2011 Panchayati Raj Act mandated the reservation of one-third of seats for women in panchayats leading to a notable increase in female panches. However, women’s representation in higher positions like sarpanchs remains limited.
Impact of conflict on women’s political participation
The ongoing conflict in Jammu and Kashmir has profoundly impacted women’s political participation. Although the situation has improved much now, still it needs a lot more to encourage women to engage far more in politics. A 2020 report by the Jammu and Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society revealed that women in conflict zones face increased risks of violence, which hampers their ability to participate in public life. Economic disruption due to conflict has disproportionately affected women, as highlighted by a 2022 UN Women study, leading to lower participation rates in political activities as women prioritize economic survival over political engagement.
Cultural norms and traditional gender roles
Cultural norms and traditional gender roles significantly influence women’s political participation in Jammu and Kashmir. Traditional roles often confine women to domestic responsibilities, restricting their time and energy for political activities. A 2023 study by the Centre for Social Research found that societal expectations still place women in secondary roles, with many feeling that politics is not an appropriate field for them. The perception of politics as a corrupt and dangerous sphere further discourages women from participating, as revealed by a 2019 survey by the Jammu and Kashmir State Election Commission, where 60 per cent of women voters expressed disillusionment with the political process due to corruption and violence. Societal attitudes favouring male leadership contribute to women’s underrepresentation, with traditional norms often hindering their electoral success. Despite an increase in female candidates in the 2011 Panchayat elections, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership positions.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsInstitutional barriers to women’s political empowerment
Institutional barriers also play a crucial role in limiting women’s political empowerment. Political parties frequently provide inadequate support for female candidates. A 2021 report by the Jammu and Kashmir Political Analysis Group highlighted that women candidates often receive less support in terms of campaign resources and party backing compared to their male counterparts. Additionally, women are underrepresented in decision-making roles within political parties and government structures. For instance, in the 2020 Legislative Assembly, only 8 out of 87 seats were held by women, reflecting a lack of female representation in key decision-making bodies. Despite legislative measures such as the reservation of seats in panchayats, women continue to face legal and structural barriers. In the 2016 Assembly elections, only 6 per cent of women were elected to key positions, underscoring the gap between legislative intent and practical outcomes. In the 2024 Lok Sabha Election, no women candidate could win including Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party supremo Mehbooba Mufti.
Multiple challenges
The challenges to women’s political empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir are significant and multifaceted stemming from the impact of conflict, cultural norms and institutional barriers. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening institutional support, promoting education and awareness, challenging cultural barriers and ensuring safety and security. By implementing these strategies, the region can move towards a more inclusive and representative political environment, contributing to its democratic development and gender parity.
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