Article Abstract
International Journal of Trends in Emerging Research and Development, 2025;3(3):133-135
Role of Women in Indian Political Parties: Historical Development and Contemporary Challenges
Author : Anu and Dr. Mahesh Chandra
Abstract
This research article examines the historical evolution and current challenges faced by women in Indian political parties. Despite constitutional guarantees and increased political awareness, women's representation in party leadership and policymaking remains minimal. Drawing upon Feminist Political Theory, Postcolonial Theory, and Intersectionality, this paper explores women's participation in electoral politics, policy influence, and leadership structures. It provides a chronological analysis from the nationalist movement to post-independence India and addresses ongoing barriers such as gender bias, patriarchal norms, tokenism, and lack of institutional support. The article concludes by advocating structural reforms and inclusive political frameworks to ensure substantive gender equality.
Keywords
Women in politics, Indian political parties, gender and leadership, electoral bias, feminist political theory, intersectionality, gender parity, policy influence, political empowerment, patriarchy in politics