From Domestic Abuse to Political Neglect—Here's Why Jharkhand Women Want 50% MLA Seats

Ranchi- Women in Jharkhand came together on International Women’s Day to demand their economic, social, and political rights, marking a historic moment in the state’s fight for gender equality.

On March 8, over 200 women representatives from various districts of Jharkhand gathered in Ranchi for the Women’s Rights Convention, organized by the Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha and several other organizations. The convention’s central theme was "Claiming the Right to Equality in Society, Economy, and Politics."

The women presented a series of demands, including 50% reservation in jobs, political representation, and social leadership, the establishment of One Stop Crisis Centers (OSCC) for victims of violence, and equal wages and workplace rights. They also called for the revival of the Women’s Commission and equal rights for transgender and queer individuals in all government schemes.

The convention served as a platform for women to share their struggles for equality in their personal lives, families, and society. Researchers, activists, and leaders highlighted the challenges women face, from domestic violence to economic exploitation and political marginalization.

The event began with Louna and Riya Tusika Pingua reminding everyone of the historical significance of International Women’s Day. They recounted how, a century ago, women in America and Europe were fighting for voting rights and equal employment opportunities, while in Russia, women led a revolution on March 8, 1917, against war, hunger, and the oppressive rule of the Tsar. This day has since become a global symbol of women’s rights struggles.

Challenges Faced by Jharkhand’s Women

Participants shared their personal battles for equality. Researcher Nasreen Alam revealed that, according to government data, 32% of women in Jharkhand suffer from domestic violence. Kaushalya Devi of the Single Women’s Empowerment Organization spoke about the exploitation faced by single women and her organization’s ongoing fight against it.

Tribal leader Dayamani Barla reminded everyone of women’s contributions to the creation of Jharkhand as a state, lamenting that men had forgotten their struggles post-statehood. She also highlighted the challenges women face in politics, noting that only 10-15% of MLAs in Jharkhand are women.

Breaking the Chains of Religion and Society

Women associated with religious organizations pointed out that religion often confines women to limited roles in personal and social life. Poet Jasinta Kerketta emphasized that society, religion, and men collectively restrict women, urging women to question these structures to dismantle patriarchy.

Economic Exploitation and Lack of Control Over Resources

Many women highlighted that economic inequality stems from their lack of control over resources. They spoke about the exploitation of women’s labor, both at home and in workplaces like companies, markets, and farms. Rajni Murmu of Izhagamum noted that tribal women’s lack of land rights is a significant factor in their marginalization.

Political Representation and Reservation

Nandita Bhattacharya of AIPWA warned of the deepening crisis surrounding women’s rights, criticizing the RSS and BJP for pushing the country toward a Hindu Rashtra that undermines constitutional values. Veena Linda of AIDYA called for women to mobilize to ensure the implementation of the long-pending Women’s Reservation Bill in Parliament and state assemblies.

Key Demands of the Convention

1. 50% Reservation in Jobs: Ensure at least 50% reservation for women in all levels of employment. Implement a special gender equality policy and revive the Women’s Commission.

2. Support for Violence Victims: Establish One Stop Crisis Centers (OSCC) for women affected by violence and ensure comprehensive rehabilitation for trafficking survivors.

3. Political Representation: Ensure at least 50% women MLAs in the state and 50% women in all levels of political party committees and leadership.

4. Equal Wages and Workplace Rights: Guarantee equal wages and workplace rights for women, including maternity benefits and childcare facilities.

5. Equal Opportunities in Education and Health: Appeal to families and society to provide equal opportunities for girls in education, health, nutrition, sports, and employment.

The convention saw participation from organizations like the Adivasi Women’s Network, Padwa, AIPWA, and Nari Shakti Club, among others. Leaders like Dayamani Barla, Emilia, Jasinta Kerketta, Geetashree Uraon, and Veena Linda shared their insights. The event was moderated by Elina Horo, Louna, and Riya Tuktika Pingua.

Through this convention, the women of Jharkhand sent a clear message: they are ready to unite and fight against patriarchy, economic exploitation, and political neglect. Their unity is not just an inspiration for Jharkhand but for the entire country.