Published Paper Details:

This research investigates the political empowerment of women in India, with a particular focus on Tamil Nadu, through a socio-legal lens. Despite constitutional guarantees under Articles 14, 15(3), 16, 243D, and 243T, and progressive legislative measures like the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments and the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023, women in India continue to face systemic and structural barriers in political participation. The study critically examines the legal frameworks and policies intended to enhance women's political representation, including Tamil Nadu-specific provisions such as the Tamil Nadu Panchayats (Amendment) Act, 2016 and the Urban Local Bodies (Reservation of Seats for Women) Rules, 2016. Drawing on empirical data collected from 70 respondents--including politicians, legal professionals, and general voters--this research highlights the persistent issues of patriarchy, tokenism, gender bias, lack of financial and institutional support, and societal resistance. Statistical tools including the chi-square test reveal that while gender perceptions influence participation, legal provisions often fall short of achieving substantive representation. The study underscores that legal quotas alone are insufficient without corresponding societal change, media sensitivity, institutional reforms, and leadership capacity-building for women. Ultimately, the research calls for a paradigm shift from symbolic representation to meaningful participation, suggesting targeted legal, political, and social strategies to bridge the gender gap in Indian politics.