Are Women Sarpanches in Madhya Pradesh Just Figureheads? Let’s Find Out.

The investigation has revealed a persistent issue across various districts, shedding light on systemic challenges in gender parity and effective governance within local bodies. In Shivpuri district, for example, Hemlata Rawat holds the formal title of President, Janpad Panchayat, but her husband, Raghuveer Rawat, effectively runs operations across more than 300 villages. This highlights the disconnect between formal positions and actual responsibilities.

In Badarwas Gram Panchayat, Vimala Bai, the Sarpanch, laments her symbolic position without real authority, while the Deputy Sarpanch exercises substantive control over local affairs. Similarly, in Jhiri Gram Panchayat, Pappi Adivasi faces similar challenges, as influential figures dominate decision-making, complicating administrative tasks such as financial recoveries. In Satanwada Khurd Gram Panchayat, Vidya Adivasi, a tribal woman Sarpanch, faces obstacles as the Panchayat secretary has usurped her authority, and administrative intervention remains elusive despite complaints and police reports.

Umrao Maravi, the District Panchayat CEO, Shivpuri, has acknowledged these issues, attributing them to local power dynamics and gender inequities. He has pledged departmental support and emphasized the need for more efforts to ensure women representatives can fulfill their roles without undue influence. This prevailing trend of men taking over women’s elected positions raises serious questions about the effectiveness of gender quotas and women’s empowerment in local governance.

It highlights the persistent obstacles and the need for systemic reforms, despite legislative mandates for gender inclusivity.