Women’s Contribution in Haryana Politics: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

Research Problem: Women’s political participation in Haryana has remained limited due to deep-rooted socio-cultural barriers and systemic challenges. Since its formation in 1966, the state’s political landscape has been predominantly male-dominated, with women constituting only a small fraction of elected representatives. Despite constitutional provisions supporting gender inclusivity, patriarchal norms, lack of political support, and proxy representation continue to hinder women's independent political agency. Methodology: This study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative research. Qualitative analysis includes the review of policy documents, scholarly literature, and media reports to understand socio-political barriers. Quantitative data from election results provide empirical insights into women's political representation trends, particularly in the 2024 Haryana Legislative Assembly elections. Key Findings: The 2024 Haryana elections marked a historic milestone with 13 women elected to the 90-member house—the highest number in state history. However, the overall participation of female candidates remains low, with major political parties fielding only 51 women out of 1,028 total candidates, a decline from 104 in 2019. The study identifies key obstacles, including patriarchal norms, limited party nominations, and the prevalence of proxy representation. Despite these challenges, leaders like Kumari Selja, and Vinesh Phogat signal a growing acceptance of female leadership in Haryana politics. Conclusion: Increasing political awareness, grassroots mobilization, and policy interventions such as gender quotas are crucial for enhancing women’s representation. Addressing structural barriers and fostering an inclusive political environment is essential for achieving gender parity in Haryana’s governance.