A first-time woman MP writes: I want to break stereotypes that hinder our collective progress
Source: The Indian Express
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.
Read here the full article published by The Indian Express on 20 July 2024.
Image by The Indian Express
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.
Read here the full article published by The Indian Express on 20 July 2024.
Image by The Indian Express