Challenges for Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions: A Study of Hailakandi District

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 opened doors for women’s political participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) through reserved seats. However, this study of Hailakandi District highlights that elected women representatives (EWRs) continue to face significant challenges like proxy leadership, societal barriers, capacity gaps, and financial dependence. Findings show that 81% of EWRs do not make decisions independently, with husbands or male relatives exerting control. Social barriers such as patriarchal norms, mobility restrictions, and gender inequality hinder women’s effective leadership. Capacity gaps in education, financial independence, and understanding political processes further weaken their autonomy. Financial dependence is stark, with 96% of EWRs relying on male family members. These challenges undermine the true spirit of women’s empowerment intended by reservations, limiting EWRs’ ability to act independently and effectively represent their communities in grassroots governance.