Rajya Sabha and Women’s Empowerment

1. Rajya Sabha and Women’s Empowerment

2. Introduction: Women’s empowerment is a process of enhancing the capabilities, rights and opportunities of women in various spheres of life. It also involves challenging the existing structures. Along with the norms that perpetuate gender inequality and discrimination. One of the key indicators of women’s empowerment is their representation in political institutions. As we delve into the role of the Rajya Sabha in shaping policies and promoting women’s rights, we explore how this legislative body is contributing to the cause. Stay updated with the latest Rajya news in Gujarati and Gujarati news for comprehensive coverage.

3. Representation of Women The Implication of Lower Representation of Women in Rajya Sabha Measures that are taken to address this issue Hindrance to Women’s Representation in the Parliament

4. Representation of Women The Rajya Sabha of the Indian Parliament is one such institution that reflects the diversity and plurality of Indian society. It consists of 245 members, out of which 233 are elected by the state and union territory legislatures. And remaining 12 members are nominated by the President of India executing his constitutional right. The Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in scrutinizing and passing legislation. It debates national and international issues, holding the government;accountable.Plus, representing the interests of the states and regions.

5. However, the Rajya Sabha also suffers from a glaring gap in terms of women’s representation. According to the latest data, there are only 24 women members in the Rajya Sabha, which amounts to 9.8% of the total strength of the House1. This is slightly lower than the percentage of women members in the Lok Sabha, or the Lower House, which stands at 14.4%2. Both these figures are far below the global average of 25.5% for women’s representation in national parliaments.

6. The Implication of Lower Representation of Women in Rajya Sabha The low representation of women in the Rajya Sabha has several implications for women’s empowerment in India. First, it limits the voice and agency of women in shaping policies and laws that affect their lives and rights. Second, it reduces the diversity and quality of perspectives and opinions that are brought to the table on various issues. Third, it reinforces the patriarchal and male-dominated culture of politics. And that discourages and excludes women from entering and advancing in this field.

7. The Implication of Lower Representation of Women in Rajya Sabha The low representation of women in the Rajya Sabha has several implications for women’s empowerment in India. First, it limits the voice and agency of women in shaping policies and laws that affect their lives and rights. Second, it reduces the diversity and quality of perspectives and opinions that are brought to the table on various issues. Third, it reinforces the patriarchal and male- dominated culture of politics. And that discourages and excludes women from entering and advancing in this field.

8. Measures that are taken to address this issue There have been numerous attempts to solve this issue over the years. One of those is introducing a bill that seeks to reserve 33% of seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies. The bill was first introduced in 1996 and has been pending since then due to a lack of political consensus and will. The bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha in 2010 but lapsed after it could not be taken up by the Lok Sabha. The bill has not been reintroduced since then, despite repeated demands from various quarters.

9. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), a regional party from West Bengal, has recently announced that it will bring a motion in the Rajya Sabha for the revival of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the last week of the ongoing budget session3. The TMC has argued that increasing women’s representation in Parliament and state assemblies is essential for ensuring gender justice and democracy in India.

10. Hindrance to Women’s Representation in the Parliament The TMC’s initiative is commendable and deserves support from all parties and stakeholders. However, it is also important to recognize that reservation alone is not enough to empower women in politics. There is a need for creating a conducive environment that enables women to enter, survive and thrive in this domain. This requires addressing various barriers and challenges that women face. And that includes social stigma, patriarchal norms, violence and harassment. As well as discrimination, lack of resources, education, training and mentorship.

11. Moreover, there is a need for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of women’s participation in politics. This means ensuring that women are not only present but also active and influential in their roles as legislators. This requires strengthening their capacities, skills and networks. So that they can articulate their views, and advocate their interests. Plus, build alliances and coalitions, negotiate with others and hold the government accountable.

12. Conclusion Rajya Sabha and Women’s Empowerment are closely linked and mutually reinforcing concepts. Increasing women’s representation in the Rajya Sabha is necessary. However, this is not a sufficient condition for empowering women in politics. There is a need for a holistic and multi-pronged approach. As it will address both quantitative & qualitative aspects of women’s political participation. This will not only benefit women but also enrich democracy and development in India. Keep an eye on the latest Rajya news in Gujarati and Gujarati news to stay informed about the significant contributions of the Rajya Sabha. Subscribe to New Gujarati News, Which promotes women’s empowerment and news related to it. And give your valuable contribution to creating a more equitable society. .

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