Women Outnumber Men Voters In Manipur, But Only 6% Are Female Candidates
NDTV
Women make up nearly 52 per cent of the total of over 20 lakh voters in the state but their representation inside the assembly or even in elections has been dismal.
In Manipur, women outnumber men in the voters' list. However, in sharp contrast, only 17 women out of the total of 265 candidates were nominated this time by various political parties. Though in their election manifesto and campaign, the parties highlight the empowerment of the women.
Women make up nearly 52 per cent of the total of over 20 lakh voters in the state but their representation inside the assembly or even in elections has been dismal. This year, only 6.42 per cent women candidates are there out of total of 265 contenders.
Punam Rani Wangkhem, a former Congress leader, is one of the 17 women candidates contesting. She is fighting on an NCP ticket and explains the difficulties faced by women.
"In our society, whether it's fighting crime or even sorting our smaller issues, you will see women take lead but our politics is totally male dominated and they would not allow an outspoken woman to rise," said Ms Wangkhem.
