Women in Politics: A Global and Indian Journey of Political Participation

Description

This book advocates for the essential role of women in political processes, arguing that their participation is vital to the health and legitimacy of democratic systems. Political participation should not be seen as just an individual right, but as a collective necessity for the flourishing of democracy. True democracy is achieved when women’s voices are integral to decision-making processes, ensuring that political systems are inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of all citizens. Through its theoretical analysis and case studies, This book serves as a vital resource for scholars, policymakers, and advocates committed to advancing gender equality and inclusive democratic systems.

Dr. Manoj Kumar Haldar is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU), Kolkata, with over 19 years of teaching experience. He has previously taught at A.B.N. Seal College (Coochbehar), Krishnagar Government College (Nadia) West Bengal, under the West Bengal Education Service (PSC) and Panchthupi H.G. College, Kandi (Murshidabad) under West Bengal College Service Commission. Dr. Haldar holds an M.A. in Political Science from the University of Calcutta and a Ph.D. in Arts from Jadavpur University, West Bengal. His research interests focus on local government and politics, marginal studies, gender politics, and Indian polity. Dr. Haldar is the co-editor of the books titled ‘Social Exclusion in Bengal: Culture, Politics and Minority’, ‘Modern Bengal: In Search of Tradition and Discourses of Margins’ and ‘Caste, Social Formation, and Political Mobilization’. Dr. Haldar has made significant contributions to the field, including a UGC-funded Minor Research Project. In addition to his academic role, he serves as the Coordinator of the NSOU Centre for Social Studies, Joint Editor of the NSOU Journal of Social Sciences, and is actively involved in the development of UG, PG, and Ph.D. programmes. A committed scholar and thought leader, Dr. Haldar’s work has been presented at national and international seminars and conferences, enriching political science discourse and inspiring a new generation of scholars.

Contents

• Political Participation: Definition 8
• Theoretical Framework 11
• Forms of Political Participation 18
• Characteristics of Political Participation: 22
• Importance of Political Participation: 24
• Conclusion 28
• References 30

• The Evolution of Women’s Political Participation A Historical and Global Perspective 36
• Milestones in Women’s Political Rights in 19th Century 37
• The Broader Impact of 19th Century Advocacy 41
• The Global Struggle for Women’s Political Rights in the 20th Century 42
• Women’s Political Participation in Post-War Democracies 44
• The International Push for Gender Equality 46
• The Rise of Women in Political Leadership 47
• The Feminist Movements and Policy Changes 48
• Legal and Policy Reforms 49
• Post-World War II Milestones in Global Gender Equality and Political Participation 50
• Post World War development in women’s Political Participation 51
• Global Frameworks for Gender Equality: The UN’s Role in Advancing Women’s Rights 53
• Legal Reforms and Gender Quotas: Paving the Way for Women’s Political Representation 55
• Contemporary Trends in Women’s Political Participation 57
• Women’s Political Participation Around the World: A Regional Perspective 64
• Conclusion 71
• References 73

• Historical Context of Women’s Political Participation in India 80
• Constitutional Provisions for Women’s Rights Post-Independence 85
• Examination of Laws and Policies Promoting Women’s Political Participation 96
• Role of National Political Parties in Promoting Women Candidates in Politics 98
• Regional Political Parties and the Promotion of Women’s Political Participation 109
• Overview of the Impact of Gender Quotas in Various Legislative Bodies in India 112
• Contemporary Trends in Women’s Political Participation in India 114
• Challenges to Women’s Political Participation in India 116
• Role of Civil Society and Grassroots Movements in Women’s Participation in Politics 120
• Successful Campaigns and Movements Advocating for Women’s Rights 124
• Impact of Technology and Social Media on Women’s Political Participation 126
• Future Directions for Women’s Political Participation in India 128
• Conclusion 131
• References 133

• Analysis of the Representation of Women in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly 146
• Detailed Account of Women’s Representation in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly (1952-2021) 149
• Women’s Representation in West Bengal Legislative Assembly Congress Dominance Period (1952–1977) 152
• The Rise of the Left Front (1970s-1990s) 153
• Challenges and Limitations 159
• Political Mobilization and Increased Representation (1990s-2000s) 161
• The Ascent of Female Leadership ( 2000s-2010s) 167
• Challenges and Ongoing Barriers 171
• Continuing Progress and Challenges (2016-2021) 173
• Challenges Despite Legislative Measures 178
• References 179