Women’s political representation grows, but crimes remain unchecked

Odisha has witnessed a notable increase in women's political representation, from local panchayats to the national parliament. However, this achievement comes juxtaposed with a concerning rise in violence against women. 

Rise in Political Representation

In recent years, women have made substantial inroads into political leadership roles, aided by government initiatives promoting empowerment, self-reliance, and education. Since 2009, their success in elections has seen a steady upward trend. In 2009, from a record 129 female candidates, seven were elected. In 2014, out of 117 candidates, 11 secured assembly seats, with further gains in 2019 and 2024.

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The Paradox of Violence Amidst Empowerment

Despite these political gains, gender-based violence remains a critical issue. Legislative measures have been instituted, including a 33% reservation in assembly elections and increased quotas in panchayats, yet incidents of violence persist. Recent data highlights over 18,000 reported crimes against women in just eight months, with a concerning low number of convictions.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi acknowledged the stark increase in reported crimes, reinforcing the urgency of the situation. 

Prevalence of Child Marriage

Equally worrying is the persistent issue of child marriage. Over 8,000 cases have been recorded in the past six years, despite extensive state-led interventions aiming to eradicate this practice. 

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Challenges within Political Participation

Odisha's evolving political landscape shows more women voting and standing as candidates. However, patriarchal influences often overshadow their autonomy. Family pressures and societal expectations play a significant role in driving women into politics.

The government must ensure these elected officials are empowered, safeguarding them from undue influences that undermine their authority. Collaborative efforts with NGOs and governmental bodies are essential to bolster the capacities of these leaders.

By Dilip Sabat