Women panchayat leaders demand end to proxy rule, push for gender-just governance

By A Representative

To commemorate three decades of ANANDI’s pioneering work in rural women’s leadership development—coinciding with the Beijing+30 review and the global assessment of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) progress—a three-day National Convention on Women in Panchayati Raj was held in Dahod, Gujarat, from April 23 to 25, 2025. Organized by ANANDI in collaboration with Devgadh Mahila Sangathan, Panam Mahila Sangathan, Maliya Mahila Shakti Sangathan, and Mahila Swaraj Manch, the event brought together elected women representatives (EWRs) from seven states to celebrate achievements, reflect on challenges, and chart a path toward gender-just local governance.

The Convention paid tribute to the trailblazing women leaders of India’s first constitutional assembly while recognizing the pivotal role of women in Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs)—India’s cornerstone of grassroots democracy. Their leadership has been instrumental in advancing national development goals and fulfilling India’s international commitments on gender equality and sustainable development.

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has developed nine indicators to localize SDGs for prosperous villages. However, based on the lived experiences of women leaders, the Convention proposed and adopted a tenth indicator: "Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Free Villages", emphasizing the need for safe and inclusive communities.

The "Celebration and Recognition of Achievements" session honored outstanding women leaders who have transformed governance and empowered their communities. Sheetalben Waghela, former President of Dahod, reflected on her leadership journey and the power of sustained community engagement. Arvindaben Patel, Vice President of Dahod Jila Panchayat, shared her two-decade-long work in strengthening Panchayat Samitis and advancing women’s education and nutrition. Dakshaben Parmar, from Dahod’s District Health Committee, spoke about her transformation into a health governance leader. Sarmitaben Pasaya, a former para-legal worker, highlighted her advocacy for women’s rights at the policy level. Sarmibai from Rajasthan, who rose from grassroots activism to national recognition, credited education and Sangathan mentorship for her success. Devaiben Kangad from Kutch, Secretary of the National Sarpanch Sangh, emphasized legal empowerment for women-friendly Panchayats. Kamli Pateliya from Madhya Pradesh mobilized women into over 24 self-help groups (SHGs), fostering economic independence. Savitriben Baria from Dahod shared innovative election strategies and her advocacy for roads, schools, and active Panchayat sub-committees.

Over 500 stories of change were shared, showcasing how women leaders have ended alcohol bootlegging, secured land rights, improved health services, and challenged regressive norms like ghunghat pratha.

While celebrating successes, the Convention also addressed persistent barriers. Proxy governance remains a major challenge, with male relatives often dominating reserved seats, undermining women’s authority. Caste and gender discrimination continue to hinder progress, as women face bureaucratic resistance and social backlash. Digital exclusion poses another hurdle, as online processes for schemes like Awaas and E-KYC marginalize rural women. Financial insecurity is another critical issue, with EWRs receiving little to no remuneration, making leadership unsustainable for low-income women. Young women leaders often face character assassination when asserting their roles.

The Convention culminated in a charter of demands, endorsed by women’s Sangathans and leaders. Participants called for an end to proxy rule through legal action against men unlawfully occupying EWR roles. They demanded fair remuneration and social security, including honorariums, transport support like free bus passes, and district-level "Sarpanch Bhavans" for lodging. Full implementation of PESA and the 73rd Amendment was emphasized to ensure true devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries to Panchayats. The need for non-digital access was highlighted, with a mandate for offline alternatives for all Panchayat services. Institutionalizing Mahila Sabhas was proposed to strengthen women’s participation in Gram Sabhas and block-level planning. The integration of GBV-Free Villages into SDG localization was also prioritized.

Dr. Kanta Singh from UN Women and Dr. Vibhutiben Patel, a gender budgeting expert, emphasized the importance of intergenerational leadership and gender-responsive planning. The Convention closed with a resounding commitment: empowered women lead to empowered villages. As EWRs return to their communities, they carry forward a collective vision—a Panchayati Raj system where women lead with dignity, autonomy, and unwavering resolve.

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