Survey form

Survey on women’s awareness on political issues

Objective : To get information about the preparation of general women in the field of
implementing the Women Reservation
Bill 2024
General information :
1. Name : Moirangthem Robita Devi.
2. Name of husband : Khangembam Khamba Singh.
3. Address : Nachou Awang Leikai
4. Age : 39
5. Level of Educational Qualification : Higher Education.
6. Marital Status: Married
7. Religion : Hinduism
8. Race : Mongoloid
9. Occupational Status : Working
10. Occupation : Teacher

Q 4. What kind of preparation is required to effectively implement the Women's Reservation Bill
?

Education and awareness

Many women, especially in rural areas, are unaware of their rights and the opportunities this bill
can provide. Grassroots campaigns and workshops must be conducted to educate women
about their roles in governance and the significance of political participation.
Capacity Building
Just reserving seats is not enough. Women need training and mentorship programs to prepare
them for leadership roles. This includes understanding political processes, public policy, and
negotiation skills.
Addressing Socio-Cultural Barriers
There is still resistance in many parts of India to women taking leadership roles due to
patriarchal mindsets. Community sensitization programs are necessary to challenge these
stereotypes and support women's active participation in politics.
Transparency in Candidate Selection
Political parties must ensure the deserving and capable women are chosen to contest elections,
rather than using reservations as a tool for nepotism or proxy candidates controlled by male
relatives
Monitoring and Accountability Mechanisms
Regular monitoring of the implementation of the reservation policy is very crucial. Independent
bodies should evaluate its impact and suggest improvements based on real data and case
studies.
I personally believe this bill has the
potential to transform governance and women's empowerment, but unless society actively
supports it, it may remain a symbolic gesture. I feel it's a step forward, but without systemic
changes in education, financial independence, and representation at all levels, the true impact
might not be realized.

Q5. How can women prepare themselves to implement it effectively ?

Political Knowledge
Women should familiarize themselves with the political system, the structure of governance, and
the implications of the Women's Reservation Bill.
Legal Awareness
Understanding constitutional rights, election processes, and relevant policies will empower them
to navigate the system confidently.
Networking
Building alliances with other women leaders, activists, and organizations can provide
mentorship and guidance.
Joining women's political forums or interest groups can help in sharing resources and strategies.
Engaging with Communities
Women should actively engage with their constituencies to understand the local issues and
challenges.
Building trust and rapport with the community will ensure support during elections and policy
making.
Economic Independence
Financial independence is key to avoiding dependency on others for campaign funding or
decision making. Women should explore ways to fund campaigns and manage resources
effectively.
Challenge Gender Norms
Women must be prepared to face resistance and stereotypes. By breaking societal norms and
asserting their presence, they can inspire others to follow.
Participation in Grassroots Movements
Actively participating in local governance (Panchayats or Municipal Corporations) can provide
firsthand experience and build confidence.
Grassroots involvement ensures that women understand the practical challenges of
governance.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement
Women should voice their concerns on national platforms to highlight the need for supportive
infrastructure like childcare, safety measures, and health facilities to enable political
participation.
Well implementing this bill is not just about being elected; it's about making an impact. And
women need to see this as an opportunity to address the issues that affect them, their families,
and society. Confidence, collaboration, and consistent efforts will pave the way for success.

Q6. In your opinion, what are the major issues related to women in India today ?
Gender Based Violence
Violence against women is a pervasive issue, and this case is a grim reminder of the risks we
face, no matter our profession or achievements. The fact that such crimes can happen in
workplaces is chilling. ( Kolkata case …)
Safety in Workplaces
As women, we're often told to work hard, pursue education, and be independent. But what's the
point if our workplaces fail to provide basic safety ? Hospitals, colleges, and other institutions
must ensure better security measures for women.
Societal Expectations and Patriarchy
Society still doesn't fully support women who step outside traditional roles. While we've made
strides in education and careers, the deep seated patriarchal mindset continues to treat women
as second class citizens, making us vulnerable at every step.
Practices like sex selective abortions and neglect of girl children reflect deep rooted gender
bias. Patriarchal attitudes
persist, limiting women's autonomy in decision making.
Accountability & Justice
Justice delayed is justice denied. Women need to know that the system will stand by us, not fail
us in our darkest moments.
We must keep pushing for change. isn't just a fight for women it's a fight for humanity, for
fairness, for safety, and for justice. We need society to support us, not just in words but in
actions.
Although there are laws to protect women, enforcement is often weak and justice is delayed or
denied in many cases.
As a woman, I feel these issues stem from a lack of equality and respect at a fundamental level.
While there has been progress, much more needs to be done to challenge mindsets.

Q7. If you get an opportunity to represent women in Parliament, what issues related to them
would you like to raise ?
Safe Public Spaces
Push for better street lighting, women only transport options, and enhanced police patrolling to
improve safety in public spaces.
Equal Pay for Equal Work
Enforce policies that mandate pay parity between men and women.
Support for Women Entrepreneurs
Advocate for financial incentives, skill development programs, and access to credit for women
led businesses.
Universal Access to Quality Education
Push for free and compulsory education for girls up to higher secondary levels, with a focus on
rural areas.
Menstrual Health
Advocate for free distribution of sanitary products in schools, workplaces, and public health
centers.
Cyber Safety
Advocate for strict action against online harassment and abuse targeting women.
Gender based pricing
The Pink Tax is something I've definitely noticed. Why should I have to pay more for the same
products just because they're marketed for women ? We are unfairly taxed just for being
women.

Thank you.

11. Annual Income Group -

( B ) - Annual income between ₹1 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh.

Questionnaire

Q1. What do you think are the major political issues in India? Name any three to five issues.
1. Slowing GDP Growth : India's GDP growth has decelerated to 5.4% which raised concerns about
the country's economic health.
2. Youth Unemployment : High competition for low skilled jobs shows the pressing issue of
unemployment, particularly among the youth.
3. Trade Relations with the US :
With changes in US leadership, India faced challenges in trade negotiations, aiming to protect
its manufacturers from potential US tariff hikes.
4. Internet Freedom Restrictions : The government's frequent imposition of internet shutdowns and
censorship has led to decline in internet freedom which affected citizens' access to information.
5. Manipur Violence : Since May 2023,
Manipur has been plagued by ethnic violence between the Meitei community, primarily Hindu,
and the Kuki-Zo tribes, mainly Christian. This has resulted in over 220 deaths and the
displacement of approximately 60,000 people. Armed militias and insurgents have further
complicated the conflict, with fighters from Myanmar's civil war crossing over into India.

Q2. Do you know about the women reservation bill ?

Yes, I'm familiar with the Women's Reservation Bill. It is a significant legislative proposal in India
aimed at ensuring greater representation of women in political decision making bodies.
The bill proposes reserving 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament) and all
State Legislative Assemblies for women. This reservation is intended to increase women's
participation in governance and policy making, addressing the historical underrepresentation of
women in Indian politics.
The bill was first introduced in 1996 and reintroduced several times in the Parliament, but it
faced opposition and could not be passed.
It was cleared by the Rajya Sabha in 2010, but it lapsed with the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.In
September 2023, the bill was passed under the name Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam during a
special session of Parliament.
The reservation is
proposed to last for 15 years from its implementation, with the possibility of renewal based on its
impact.
Women constitute nearly 50% of India's population but occupy less than 15% of the seats in
Parliament and State Assemblies.
Increased representation can bring attention to issues like gender based violence, healthcare,
education, and economic inequality.
It ensures diversity in leadership and promotes more inclusive governance.
I believe addressing socio-cultural barriers is just as important as legislative reforms.

Q3. How important are the provisions of the Women's Reservation Bill ?
Women make up nearly 50% of India's population but occupy less than 15% of seats in
Parliament and State Legislatures.
The bill's provisions, reserving 33% of seats for women, will significantly increase women's
participation in decision making roles.
A diverse and inclusive legislature ensures that governance reflects the needs and aspirations
of all citizens.
Increased representation ensures a stronger voice for issues like gender-based violence,
reproductive rights, and equal pay.
Policies and programs tailored to women's needs are more likely to gain attention and funding.
Women in leadership roles challenge the dominance of traditional male dominated political
structures, leading to a more equitable distribution of power.
The bill challenges patriarchal norms and encourages society to see women as leaders and
decision makers.
It can also inspire younger generations of women to participate in politics, creating a ripple
effect across communities.