Barriers and breakthroughs: women participation in Pris in Punjab

Abstract

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 marked a pivotal shift in India’s democratic landscape by transforming representative democracy into participatory democracy through Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Mandating reservations for women, it aimed to empower them as decision-makers at the grassroots level. While Punjab has made strides with increased women’s participation in local governance, deep-rooted socio-cultural barriers, patriarchal mindsets, proxy representation, and limited institutional support continue to hinder true empowerment. Insights from the 2024 Punjab Panchayat elections reveal women’s growing focus on development and welfare, contrasting with men’s caste and community-driven choices. Despite challenges, modernization, education, and social media are gradually shifting attitudes, allowing women to assert themselves as leaders and community change agents. The journey underscores that while constitutional provisions laid the foundation, sustained efforts are needed to overcome structural and societal constraints and ensure women’s meaningful political agency within local governance.