POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN IN TAMIL NADU – A STUDY

Author

Dr. R.RENUGADEVI


Abstract

 Women constitute nearly one half of society, and their participation in political institutions is an important indicator of democratic development. In Tamil Nadu, the political empowerment of women has developed through social reform movements, expansion of female education, democratic participation, political mobilisation, reservation policies and local self-government institutions. The constitutional reforms introduced through the 73rd and 74th Amendments provided an institutional framework for women's participation in Panchayats, Municipalities and Corporations. Tamil Nadu subsequently strengthened women's representation in rural local bodies by increasing reservation from one-third to 50 percent in 2016.  This study examines the historical background, constitutional provisions, reservation policies, participation of women in local governance, role of political parties and women's organisations, major achievements, challenges and future prospects of women's political empowerment in Tamil Nadu. The study argues that political empowerment should not be understood merely as numerical representation. Effective participation in decision-making, leadership, political awareness, education, economic independence and institutional support are equally important dimensions of empowerment.



Keywords

Women, Political Empowerment, Tamil Nadu, Local Government, Panchayat, Reservation, Political Participation, Gender Equality.



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References


  1. Government of Tamil Nadu, Tamil Nadu Panchayats Act, 1994, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department.
  2. Government of Tamil Nadu, Policy Note, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, 2019–2020.
  3. Government of Tamil Nadu, Policy Note, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, 2017–2018.
  4. Government of Tamil Nadu, History of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Tamil Nadu.
  5. Government of Tamil Nadu, Tamil Nadu State Finance Commission – Constitutional Provisions. T
  6. Government of Tamil Nadu, Commissionerate of Municipal Administration – Local Body Elections.
  7. Government of Tamil Nadu, Policy Note – Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women.
  8. Government of India, The Constitution of India, Ministry of Law and Justice.
  9. Government of India, 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992.
  10. Government of India, 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992.

 

 

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