Concept of Political Participation

Women in Agriculture

Lesson 4 : Socio –Economic and Political Status of Rural Women

Concept of Political Participation

Political participation is the hallmark of a democratic setup. Nature, successand effectiveness of democracy largely depend on the extent to which equal,effective and actual participation is provided by the system to all its citizens. Aswomen comprise about half of the population, this section of society requires dueattention in the system and a due share in process. Citizens' active participation inpolitical affairs in a democracy is crucial and necessary because it provideslegitimacy to the system and also strengthens the democratic fabric. Democracywill fail in its objectives if women citizens lack equal opportunity to participate inthe governmental decision-making process. They are to be equal partners in thenation-building and political development. Political participation does not mean only the right to vote, but it includes the ability to influence policies and decision-making. But, unfortunately women are under represented in all the wings of the Government-legislative, executive and judicial.
Women occupy only 9% of parliamentary seats, less than 4% seats in High Courts and supreme court and less than 3% administrators and managers are women.

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Last modified: Friday, 1 June 2012, 6:58 AM