Challenges Faced by Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions

Context

• The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 provided 33% reservation for women in PRIs, with some states extending it to 50%.
• Despite this, patriarchal norms, lack of experience, and political pressure hinder women's leadership.
• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj formed a committee (Sept 2023), chaired by Sushil Kumar, to assess these challenges.
• Findings are based on four regional workshops in 14 states, engaging governments and EWRs.

Key Challenges

1. Lack of Political Experience

• Many EWRs lack administrative knowledge and struggle with governance.

2. Gender-Based Discrimination

• Women are often ignored in meetings, with officials preferring male counterparts.

3. Patriarchal Norms

• Purdah system, male dominance, and social restrictions limit women's participation.

4. Political Pressure & Threats

• Intimidation, coercion, and misuse of No Confidence Motions weaken women’s authority.

5. Socio-Economic Disadvantages

• Many EWRs belong to SC/ST/Minority groups, facing additional discrimination.
• Domestic responsibilities further limit their governance role.

6. Lack of Training & Mentorship

• No structured programs to enhance leadership or guide new EWRs.

7. Short-Term Reservation

• 5-year reservation cycle is too short for leadership development.

8. Weak Legal Deterrence

• Laws against proxy rule (Pradhan Pati, Sarpanch Pati) are poorly enforced.

Recommendations & Way Forward

1. Strengthen Legal Framework

• Strict penalties against proxy rule and coercion.

2. Capacity Building

• Leadership training, financial education, and mentorship programs for EWRs.

3. Structural Reforms

• Extend reservation tenure beyond five years for continuity.

4. Awareness & Gender Sensitization

• Campaigns to change societal attitudes and promote women's leadership.

Conclusion

• Legal, structural, and social reforms are needed to empower EWRs.
• Implementing these changes will strengthen grassroots democracy and ensure effective women’s leadership in PRIs.