Political Institutions and Gender Equality in India:

(i) In all societies there is an arrangement for formation and implementation of law and order. In simple societies agencies of social control were largely informal, for example, customs or norms. A council of elders ensured that members of a community followed the norms laid down by that community. As societies became more complex and formal, the state took over the responsibility of governance and institutions such as assemblies and Parliament replaced informal institutions. But whether it was the informal system of political governance or the formal system, the representation of women has always been very low.

(ii) Democracy for most women means casting their votes in elections and not participating as people's representatives. Politics is still considered as unsuitable for women because they have no experience of handling power.

(iii) It is surprising that in the Indian society which has had a few brave women rulers also, women still continue to be considered unfit for important political positions. Since men have held power in all institutions, they are not really prepared to accept the idea of sharing power with women. This phenomenon is not typical of Indian society, but is noticeable all over the world.

(iv) The 73rd and 74th amendments to the Constitution of India gave 1/3rd representation to women in rural and urban local self-government (Panchayats, Municipalities and Corporations) and paved the way for nearly a million women entering the political decision making process.

(v) However, the Women's Reservation Bill which proposes to give 1/3rd reservation to women in the Parliament and state assemblies is still waiting to be cleared by the legislature. Though women have proved their abilities in managing political responsibilities, it is unfortunate that the bill is still awaiting clearance.