TRANSFORMING LIVES
Kashmir has long been a land of secularism and pluralistic traditions, producing remarkable women who have played pivotal roles in shaping its history. From Kota Rani, the last Hindu queen of Kashmir known for her administrative acumen, to Habba Khatoon, whose poetry continues to resonate with generations, the region has celebrated female intellect and leadership. Spiritual figures like Lalleswari (Lal Ded) and Rupa Bhawani have left an unforgettable impact on Kashmiri society, advocating for harmony and self-realization. In more recent times, a number of women have actively contributed to Kashmir’s political and social discourse.
Despite Kashmir’s rich secular legacy, the rise of terrorism in the late 1980s brought a significant regression in women’s rights. This period marked the downfall of women in every aspect of life. The turmoil created an atmosphere where women became victim both directly and indirectly. Terrorism not only introduced unlawful arms among the general public but also restricted women’s rights. The other factors such as shift priorities, social and cultural constraints, the decline of women-centric political movements, lack of institutional support, media representation, and stereotyping. Women, who once enjoyed relative social freedom, found themselves at the mercy of God.
In the past the role of religious extremists was extremely oppressive toward the women of Kashmir. Also, acid attacks became a terrifying reality, with several young girls targeted for defying radical norms. These attacks were aimed to instill fear, pushing women back into seclusion. The early 1990s witnessed a chilling transformation of Kashmir’s social fabric as educational institutions faced threats and professional women were forced to either conform or abandon their aspirations. They became victims of injustice, deprivation, social stigma, gender bias, political instability, conflict, lack of representation and opportunities, a patriarchal society, security concerns, economic dependence, limited political awareness, education, and cultural, religious constraints.
The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 marked a significant policy shift, bringing various central government schemes into the fold of Kashmiri society and providing avenues for women’s progress in business and education. These include the Tejaswini Scheme, 33% Reservation in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), and the Women’s Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023), which provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, marking a historic move to increase female representation in higher political offices.
Other key initiatives include Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), Stand Up India Scheme, which supports women entrepreneurs by enabling them to gain financial independence and later enter politics, and Mahila Shakti Kendras (MSK), which strengthen grassroots women’s empowerment by providing skill training, legal aid, and political awareness programs. These initiatives have contributed to increased women’s political representation, with the BJP witnessing a rise in female MPs, MLAs, and local leaders.
The decline in militancy to almost zero today was not easy to achieve. However, empowering women who had faced religious and political bigotry was an even tougher task. Providing platforms and opportunities for Kashmiri women required policies, ideologies, and schemes to inspire them to stand up and fight for their rights. This has been executed by our leaders over the past decade. No force, no pressure—let women decide their role on their own.
Political Empowerment through Various Schemes and Policies
The abrogation of Article 370 has brought legal changes, including gender-equal property rights and political reservations, encouraging women to step into leadership roles. Nowadays, the political landscape of Kashmir is gradually evolving, with women assuming leadership positions from grassroots governance to legislative roles.
While talking to Fatah Begum, 80-year-old women, Sarpanch of Amargarh village Sopore, “I was widowed at 17 with eight children, then worked as a labourer and sold milk to educate them, when article 370 got abrogated which reserved 33% seats for women in the halqa panchayats I got an opportunity to pursue my political ambitions,”said Fatah Begum. She emphasized the importance of women’s education, her rights, and duties that enable her to be an agent of change, particularly in local governance.
Compared to the 2014 elections, women’s participation has exhibited notable trends in both voter turnout and candidacy.Daisy Raina, one of the first few Pandit women in politics and a resident of Trichal, Pulwama, says, “I will work for the development of my nation and be an equal contributor.
The abrogation of Article 370 also ensured the implementation of central laws for women’s political rights and reservations. Women’s political participation has become mandatory, leading to increased involvement in local body elections and District Development Councils (DDCs). The historical participation of women in elections has become a reality in the last few years.
More than 20 ‘One Stop Centres’ were established to benefit 70,000 women. Under Mission Shakti, aiming to provide comprehensive support for women’s safety, security, and empowerment, more than 4,000 women have benefited. National Commission for Women (NCW) programs, the Women Helpline (181), Fast-Track Courts, stronger implementation of laws against harassment and discrimination, and awareness campaigns have contributed to the rise of women as social and political influencers in Kashmir.
Today, Kashmiri women are journalists, writers, and political analystsare actively shaping public opinion on women’s rights in governance. As women in politics gain societal acceptance and policy support, more are expected to take on leadership roles. Youth engagement and digital platforms will further empower young Kashmiri women to step into politics. The continued push for gender-sensitive policies by the Central Government will help shape a more inclusive political landscape.
Participation in politics by Kashmiri women, from Ward to Panch to Sarpanch to BDC, DDC, and the Assembly, represents the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and a long-standing desire of women to work for a new Kashmir with new hopes and expectations. The policies not only make them independent and powerful but also enable them to contribute to the progress of society.
Women have gained more opportunities to participate through reserved seats. We need to focus on their broader political engagement and ensure equal participation between men and women so that the notion of women relying on marriage for security is replaced with their potential and ability to be equal contributors to society.
The present focus should be on raising more awareness about the political power of women and the importance of women legislators. Highlighting inspirational women can encourage greater female participation in general elections. More schemes should be introduced for women’s reservations in Kashmir, expanding the political spectrum for women by establishing women-led organizations and women’s political parties.
Encouraging women’s involvement in the political process, including enhancing reservation in seats and providing ample opportunities can empower women in Kashmir. In that regard BJP has done a tremendous job by granting rights to women and creating a historic shift toward gender equality.
(Author can be reached at: [email protected])
