This paper examines the resurgence of the "women's question" in Indian politics, following its development from colonial times to the present. In the past, women's struggles throughout the colonial era were mostly centred on social changes, with little attention paid to political emancipation. Despite legislative advancements, women in the post-colonial era were marginalized in politics and had insufficient representation in decision-making. The study looks at significant turning points that rekindled the debate in India over women's empowerment. The ratification of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which set aside seats for women in local government bodies and gave them a forum for grassroots political engagement, was one such instance. Even though Parliament has passed the Women's Reservation Bill, which calls for women to hold 33% of the seats in Parliament and state legislatures, but the main problem with the bill is how it will be implemented, which will ultimately determine the course of the intended outcomes for increased women's participation in democratic processes. The study also duels into assess the role of government affirmative action programs and their effects.
The study comes to the conclusion that both historical movements and current discussions are fuelling the continued resurgence of the women's question. These initiatives are a reflection of the ongoing fight for women's empowerment and gender equality in India's changing political environment.

Authors:
Chayanika Uniyal, University of Delhi, India

About the Presenter(s)
Associate Professor in University of Delhi, National Co-Coordinator Rajiv Gandhi Study Circle, researches gender Issues & Colonial Struggles. Currently, she’s working on two books & leading RGF & RGSC events on women in governance

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chayanika-uniyal-40879a22/

Additional website of interest
https://x.com/dr_chayanika

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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