In my journey as a Member of Parliament (MP), I’ve faced firsthand the multifaceted challenges that women in politics encounter — challenges that extend well beyond legislative duties and reveal entrenched societal perceptions and biases. There have been instances where my presence was seen as symbolic rather than substantive. Men would often direct their conversations to my husband instead of engaging with me, assuming he held more authority in discussions — an assumption based solely on his gender.
During interviews, I’ve encountered condescending questions about balancing political responsibilities with being a wife, questions rarely posed to male counterparts. Such experiences highlight the persistent double standards that ambitious women in politics navigate. Navigating societal attitudes towards marriage has been another hurdle, exemplified by being labeled as “nakli Dalit” due to my inter-caste marriage. This label underscores how deeply ingrained stereotypes about women’s social identities can overshadow their individual achievements and capabilities.
The concept of “mukhiyapati”, to me, reflects the challenge of asserting independence and legitimacy as a woman MP. This perception assumes that women in authority are influenced or controlled by male family members, complicating the landscape of political leadership. Overcoming this stereotype requires not just demonstrating competence and autonomy but actively challenging societal norms that undermine women’s agency in political decision-making. We need to be advocating for policies that empower women economically, socially, and politically.
Despite these obstacles, being an MP is deeply rewarding. It’s about more than legislative achievements; it’s about advocating for social justice, challenging stereotypes, and reshaping perceptions of women’s roles in society. Each day, I strive to represent my constituents with dedication, knowing my presence contributes to a more inclusive political landscape.
In many societies, political spaces remain male-dominated, perpetuating systemic barriers that limit opportunities for female representation. Confronting these patriarchal structures involves navigating a landscape where gender biases often overshadow merit and qualifications. Women MPs frequently encounter skepticism about their leadership capabilities and face discriminatory remarks, requiring them to excel in multitasking and resilience while balancing family responsibilities.
A significant challenge for women parliamentarians is the perception of being symbolic rather than substantive in their roles. This notion undermines their contributions and overlooks the substantial impact women MPs have on policymaking and governance. The stereotypical portrayals of women in leadership roles coupled with unequal access to resources hinder progress. Achieving inclusivity in political leadership requires dismantling barriers, promoting diversity, and fostering a supportive environment. Mentorship programmes, leadership training, and institutional reforms are essential to nurturing a new generation of diverse leaders.
Being an MP allows you to embody and uphold India’s democratic values, advocating for social justice, and challenging entrenched inequalities. For women parliamentarians, this journey involves overcoming systemic barriers, confronting biases, and reshaping political landscapes for greater diversity and inclusivity. By championing inclusive governance, MPs pave the way for a future where gender equality and representation are realities, not aspirations. In essence, being an MP, especially as a woman, is about leading societal change, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for an equitable world. Every day, women MPs globally defy expectations. As we strive for these ideals, the contributions of women parliamentarians are pivotal in shaping a future where every voice is heard and every individual can thrive.
Now, as I fulfill my role in Parliament, my mission is not just to advocate for social justice, including but not limited to the cause of gender equality. Empowered by my position, I am committed to breaking stereotypes that hinder our collective progress towards a more equitable society where all individuals can achieve their aspirations without constraints based on gender or societal norms. To achieve this vision, collaboration across sectors is essential. I am dedicated to fostering partnerships with civil society organisations, academia, and private sector leaders to promote gender-responsive policies and initiatives. By leveraging these partnerships, we can amplify the voices of women, address gender disparities in political representation, and create inclusive environments where diversity is celebrated and valued.
Education and awareness are fundamental to challenging ingrained stereotypes and biases. Through outreach programmes and community engagement, I aim to empower young women to pursue careers in politics and leadership roles. By nurturing future generations of female leaders, we can ensure sustained progress towards gender equality in political decision-making and beyond.
Yes, my journey as an MP has been marked by challenges that underscore the ongoing struggle for gender equality in politics. Yet, it has also been defined by resilience, determination, and a commitment to advocating for change. As I continue on this path, I am driven by the belief that inclusive governance is not just a goal but a fundamental right. Together, we can build a future where all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from our shared prosperity.
Choudhary is MP, Lok Janshakti Party
