India

In elections across the globe, the spotlight has been trained on the question of women’s representation, and rightly so. How vibrant can a democracy be if half of its population does not find adequate representation in politics or in the corridors of power?

Indian wrestling star

True progress for women is not merely about breaking barriers but fundamentally transforming the structures that have long hindered their advancement.

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.

Women in South India have made significant strides in various fields, but politics remains a challenging arena. Despite the region's progressive reputation, female politicians face numerous barriers in their careers.