Empowering Women Leaders in Delhi’s Political Sphere
New Delhi is witnessing a transformative shift in its political landscape. With Rekha Gupta serving as Chief Minister and Atishi leading the opposition, women are redefining their roles and taking the reins of power in the capital.
A Shift from the Past
The journey to this point hasn’t been easy. Priyanka Gautam, a first-time councillor in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi who initially contested as an AAP candidate but later switched to BJP, recalls the days during her college years. “Back then, even the mention of our names was significant — let alone speaking publicly!” she shared.
The Value of Women in Governance
Ritu Goel, a two-time municipal councillor from Rohini, emphasizes the unique attributes women bring to governance. “Women naturally embody balance, transparency, and dedication. We carry the same efficiency at work that we practice at home — it’s ingrained in us,” she stated confidently.
The Challenge for Women Politicians
Despite their competencies, women politicians often face an uphill battle to earn the respect that their male counterparts easily receive. Ariba Khan, a Congress councillor from Abul Fazal Enclave, expresses her frustration: “To introduce a different culture into politics, we must raise our voices. Sometimes, aggression is the only path to be acknowledged.” Khan, whose political roots stem from her father, former MLA Asif Mohammad Khan, acknowledges the advantages of a political lineage while stressing the importance of independent decision-making.
The Reality of Political Independence
While some argue that political backgrounds aid women in their careers, Naziya Danish, Congress councillor from Zakir Nagar, points out a harsh truth: “Around 70% of women in politics, especially at the local level, are influenced by male relatives or husbands. Many adhere to unofficial ‘terms and conditions’ set by those around them.” Danish also emphasizes her commitment to speaking for herself.
Breaking Stereotypes
Danish further critiques the cultural perception that often sees women through the lens of their relationships rather than their capabilities: “I’ve often been introduced as someone’s wife rather than acknowledged for my leadership.” She advocates for a change in mindset toward women in politics.
Facing Extraneous Scrutiny
Even when women achieve leadership roles, they are subjected to heightened scrutiny. Danish candidly states, “Men’s decisions are judged, while women are assessed based on their attire, body language, and tone. If we don’t present ourselves ‘properly,’ we are often dismissed as serious politicians.”
A Collaborative Approach to Governance
Shelly Oberoi, an AAP councillor from East Patel Nagar and the first mayor of the reunified Municipal Corporation of Delhi, recounts her experience: “Though faced with numerous challenges, I believe in an administration where all individuals—regardless of gender—play an equal role.” Oberoi details how her party’s trust in her capabilities allowed her to propose transformative plans for the MCD, which had been grappling with a financial crisis.
Working with Bureaucracy
The bureaucratic environment poses additional challenges. Danish notes, “The intricacies of bureaucracy mean women leaders aren’t always taken seriously. It boils down to how much influence you wield.” However, she acknowledges that some women in leadership manage to command respect within this male-dominated sphere.
Different Experiences with Bureaucrats
Conversely, Yogita Singh shares her perspective: “I find it easier to collaborate with bureaucrats than male politicians. Female IAS officers are generally more understanding, and even male officers are beginning to learn the importance of respecting women leaders.”
The Promise of Change
Women’s representation in politics is steadily increasing. While the MCD has maintained a 50% reservation for women, the broader political domain has seen mixed results. For instance, the number of female legislators in the recent assembly polls dropped from eight to five, despite major parties nominating more women candidates. Nonetheless, progress is on the horizon as Kamaljeet Sehrawat, BJP MP from West Delhi, highlights the forthcoming Women’s Reservation Act, mandating 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies starting in 2029.
Women Leading Change
Sehrawat asserts, “Once the Act is in place, political parties will have no excuse not to field more women candidates.” The BJP is already encouraging women’s involvement at all levels, as evidenced by the current woman CM and two women MPs in Delhi.
Empowered Leadership
While quotas promote representation, the essence of true leadership transcends numbers. Each woman leader tackles her unique challenges and accomplishments. Goel, for example, revised the MCD’s teacher transfer policy to prioritize deserving women, while Danish focused on enhancing essential amenities for women and implementing improvements like public restrooms and traffic solutions in Okhla.
Continuing the Fight
As women in politics persist in their journey, the fight evolves from merely securing a seat at the table to transforming the very rules of the game.
