CHAPTER-III TRIBAL WOMEN AND THEIR PARTICIPATION IN PANCHAYAT RAJ INSTITUTIONS

CHAPTER-III TRIBAL WOMEN AND THEIR PARTICIPATION IN PANCHAYAT RAJ INSTITUTIONS

CHAPTER-III TRIBAL WOMEN AND THEIR PARTICIPATION IN PANCHAYAT RAJ INSTITUTIONS Political participation of women is broader than their participation in the electoral and administrative process. It includes the whole gamut of voluntary activities with a bearing on the political process including support of political groups, dissemination of political views, involving in any form of organized activities that effect or seeks to effect power relationships. It refers to activities not only formally empowered to make decisions, but also intends to influence the attitudes and behavior or those who have powers for decision-making. Participation in grass-root organizations can give them experience in democracy and empowerment. It will become the foundation for democratic life in the society as a whole. Through participation at the local level, they can gain knowledge and awareness of their own social, economic and political conditions and learn to. address them. The discussion made above explicates some important variables of participation. They are: 1. Participation in Panchayat activities through attending Panchayat meetings, standing committee meetings. 2. Participating in the selection of beneficiaries for the various development schemes. In modem democratic system political participation has been regarded as relevant and determining factor. Democracy is an accepted form of government in most countries of the world today. Accordingly the constitutions of these countries have ensured political, economic and social equality. However, it is an important phenomenon to note that there is an element of difference in the level of equality conferred by different governments across the globe. It becomes evident that the prevailing socio-economic and political 134

factors in these countries have a definite bearing on the privileges granted to the people. Political Participation in India seems to be considerably smaller in proportions in relation to political representation of women in western countries. In support of this observation, it can be noticed that the number of women representatives in Indian parliament since the first general election has never been in excess of 10% of total members at any point of time. This kind of political inequality between men and women is a global phenomenon. However, inequality in the Indian scenario is much larger than in most of the countries of the world. It was only after 1950s that attempts are being made to reduce the gap between men and women representation in Indian politics in general and local self-government in particular. A significant move in this regard is the adoption policy to enlarge the base of political participation of women and Tribal women in PRIs. Attention is drawn to the Karnataka Panchayat Raj policy Act of 1983. This Act is unarguably the first of its kind in the history of evolution of PRIs then formulated. This reservation was extended to the posts of presidents participation through increased political representation 25% of reservation to women was raised to 33% in a span of 10 years from 1983 to 1993 witnessed an important amendment to the constitution of India. The amendment namely 73rd Constitutional amendment provided for 33% reservation to women at all levels of PRIs covering the rural India. To see that women representatives perform as leaders of these organizations 33% of the posts of Member, President and Vice-President was earmarked for women representatives. In this context an attempt is made in the present chapter to analyze the political participation through representation in PRIs, the study area. This analysis reveals that the impact of social factors on political participation through representation is greater than all other factors. Social factors such as caste, religion, sex etc. wield influence on political representation in their own distinct way. In this context when we take into consideration gender based 135

political representation we noticed a large amount of difference in the level of political participation by men on the one hand women on the other hand. Membership to organization/political party The table below shows the political awareness created by organizations like NGOs, SHGs, Government departments and Political parties among tribal women. In this regard respondents were asked about membership to any organization and political parties. Women respondents tells their opinion about the membership given clearly in below table No. 3.1 Table No 3.1: Membership to any organization/political party SI No Opinion organization Political party Frequency percentage Frequency Percentage 1 Yes 148 49 169 56.33 2 No 152 51 131 43.77 Total 300 100 300 100 Figure No 3.1: Membership to any organization/political party Yes... No 136

From the Table No 3.1, it can be noticed that for the sake of research analysis 300 elected tribal women respondents were interviewed regarding their membership to organization and political parties. 49% (148) of the respondents says yes they are the members of an organization, and 51%(152) respondents says no and regarding to membership political party, 56.3 %(169) respondents says yes, they are the members of a political party, 43.77%(131) respondents says no to this. This clearly shows that participation of tribal women influenced by both the factors. Majority of women respondents have affiliated with the organizations and political parties like Congress, BJP, JDS, and organizations, so on. However, this table reveals political parties and organizations have affected positively to political participation of tribal women in study area. Interest to enter into politics The information also collected regarding entrance to politics by tribal women respondents with their own interest. They said different opinion regarding their interest in entering politics. The study reveals that majority of the respondents of 95% (286) entered politics with their own interest and only 5%(14) respondents have entered politics without their own interest. The data clearly reveals that PRIs system has given the direct and active participation for Tribal women in local governance in study area. Reasons for the entering the politics The data also collected regarding reasons of entering politics by tribal women respondents. It is true that a large number of women have become members of PRIs but it is essential to know the forces which brought them to the fold of PRIs. The researcher identifies the reason behind women becoming PRI members. The below table No 3.2 shows the different reasons for the entering the politics by women respondents. 137

Table No 3.2: Reason for entering the politics SI.No. Reason for entering Frequency Percentage Politics 1 Pressure from Husband 48 16 2 Pressure from Brother 03 1.00 3 Pressure from Parents 12 4.00 4 Pressure from Friends 1 0.33 5 My own interest 221 73.67 6 Other reason 15 5.00 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.2: Reason for entering the politics 350 Percentage Frequency Pressure Pressure Pressure Pressure My own Other from from from from interest reason Husband Brother Parents Friends In the above table No 3.2 shows that 16%(48) of women respondents given reason for entering politics due to that pressure from their husband, only 1%(03) respondents has given reason to enter politics that support from their 138

brother, 4%(12) of the respondents mentions that there was a pressure from their parents, only one respondent stated that pressure from friends, majority of [73.6% (221)]respondents stated that my own interest good things in system with their participation in politics, another 5%(15) respondents said that to due to other reason. This data give clear picture of reasons to entering the politics by tribal women not by the pressure from the parents, husband, brother, friends, but it is by own interest. This further show that tribal women are politically empowered and coming forward to take part in the grass root level politics. Support to enter into politics Here the researcher identifies the reason behind supported to enter into politics of die respondents either they preferred to contest the election voluntarily or they were supported and motivated by other factors. If so, what kind of support or motivating factors, have been interpreted on the basis of information computed in the following table No 3.3. Thus those factors like self, caste, religious groups, political party, family etc. analyzed below. Table No 3.3: Support to enter into politics Sl.No. Support Frequency Percentage 1 Self 49 16 2 Caste 110 37 3 Religious groups 02 0.33 4 Political Party 48 16 5 Family 57 19 6 Capacity Hereditary of politics 11 3.67 7 Supporters 23 8 Total 300 100 139

Figure No 3.3: Support to enter into politics Frequency Percentage The above table No 3.3 shows that dominant force or factor that has brought majority of women to the fold of PRJs is the force or motivation created by self, family, caste, political party, family etc. 16%(49) of respondents got support by themselves, 37%( 110) respondents supported by their caste background, 0.33%(02) respondents received support from their religious groups, 16%(48) respondents supported by political party, 19%(57) respondents by their family support, 3.6%(11) respondents supported by hereditary politics and 8%(23) respondents supported by supporting groups. According to this data we can clearly find out those tribal women respondents have got maximum support by their community, family, self, political party and supporters respectively. That means social institutions very much supported the tribal women. Political career of respondents After studying the all the factors and causes to enter politics as explained through earlier tables. Researchers have made an attempt to know the political careers of respondents. The data show the different opinion regarding the political career of the respondents in study area. The data reveal that the political career of respondents only 5% (16) tribal women leader mentioned 140

that they were in politics before this election few years ago and 95%(284) of women members are newly elected and they don t have any political career. This data clearly indicate that PRIs have brought the drastic changes in rural and tribal areas that to women in development process and active political participation of the country. Further data shows that first generation young tribal women are coming to the politics which is good sign for their empowerment. Reservation Policy Reservation of women in the panchayat raj is not only increasing the number of women members but also allow the women in rural and tribal areas to develop themselves and contribute to the society. Participation in the development process brings about a variety of new opportunities and challenges for the elected representatives need to enhance their ability and confidence to handle the responsibilities. Here, researcher studied whether respondents were elected under reservation policy or not. The data illustrate the impact of reservation on women participation in politics. The common perception is that due to reservation, women representatives are able to participate in the affairs of panchayats with much more confidence and they also feel much more secured. Majority of (94%) (283) of respondents entered politics with reservation policy and only 6% (17) of respondents say that they have not taken any reservation. This data give clear scenario of fruitfulness of reservation policy. Here majority of women members i.e 95% of them are in politics because of women reservation. Perhaps this is positive impact of reservation in favour of women in panchayat raj institutions. Awareness about their voting power The study deals with the political awareness among the tribal women respondents in panchayats. It is an important to assess the awareness about voting in every election by respondents. The present study shows that the 141

respondents are aware of voting power in every election and shows the responsible citizen. Here data shows 99% (297) i.e. all most all of respondents are voting in every election and very small portion of the respondents that is 1%(3) were not voting in every election. This data reveals that majority of women respondents have awareness of fundamental duties and powers because of its social relevance. Only one 1% of respondents have not aware of these fundamental duties and powers because their ignorance, illiteracy and don t have interest. Family member s involvement in election campaign In any contest motivation is push factor to participating competition matters as such this especially case of schedule tribe women in the present study area. There are various factors which influenced the respondents to win the election. Family and family members support is also necessary to understand the factors of winning the election. Hence, here the study shows the different opinion regarding the family member s involvement in election campaign. A large majority, 94% (281) of respondents received their family involvement in election and 6% (19) respondents have not received any family support to win the election. Here, noticeable thing is that reservation was not considered as important reason to win the election but it also considered that their family members involvement and their continuous support. Data reveal that women were given the opportunity to participate in the election through only by the family supports like husband, brothers, parents, in-laws and children. This indicates that women alone cannot participate in any kind of development process especially in rural and tribal areas. Nature of experience in panchayat system After entering the politics women respondents have their own experience in the political field. With their active and continuous participation in this field, they are encouraged to enter in the rural development process. The 142

below table No 3.4, shows that the different opinion regarding the experience received in the political field. Table No 3.4: Nature of experience in panchayat system Sl.No. Frequenc Percentage Experience y 1 It is good, different from others 181 60.33 2 It is role model to others 64 21.34 3 First it was difficult but now it easy and good 42 14 4 We mingle with others and we do work 12 4 5 We solve many problems 1 0.33 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.4: Nature of experience in panchayat system It is good, different from others It is role model to others First it was difficult but now it easy and good We mingle with others and we do work We solve many problems In above table No 3.4 shows that, 60.33%(181) respondents are have experienced that it is good, different from others, 21.33%(64) respondents have experienced that it is role model to others, 14%(42) respondents experienced 143

that beginning it is difficult to handle but now it is easy, 4%(12) respondents have experienced that they mingle each other and do work, and 0.33%(1) respondents have experienced that they can able to solve problems. The data reveal that majority of women respondents shown interest in this field because it is good and different from others that means that is main gateway to change and develop the rural area and tribal areas through grassroot level governance. The nature and experience makes them perfect and build capacity in the development process. Training programme for panchayat members To enhance the capacity of the elected women representatives, it is important to impart them basic training about panchayat raj system. As far as training is concerned the government and NGOs have given the special training to the respondents. The tribal respondents also have received formal training about their duties and responsibilities under the panchayat raj system act of Karnataka. But it is important to mention here that inspite of such training most of them still lack awareness about the acts and provisions. The study shows that out of 300 respondents, 87% (260) respondents attended formal training of Panchayat raj, and 13%(40) of respondents have not attended the any training programme of Panchayat raj system. This data show that majority of the respondents have undergone the training. It appears that training of these elected representatives receive most benefit for them to aware of the rights and duties of the members, government programmes policy, and more confident to discharge their duties. It is indicates that one must have undergone the training to enter any field. Problem faced by the respondents during training period Here an attempt has made to know the problem faced by the Tribal women during the training period. The table shows difficulty faced by the respondents to understand and receive the formal training, due to some reasons examined through below table No 3.5. 144

Table No 3.5: Problem faced by the respondents during training period SI.No. Problems Frequency Percentage 1 Literacy problem 119 40 2 Economical Problems 57 19 3 Social and Educational Problems 59 20 4 All type of problems 31 10 5 Language, Inferiority problem, Social Problem 34 11 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.5: Problem faced by the respondents during training period Literacy problem Economical Problems Social and Educational Problems All type of problems Language, Inferiority problem, Social Problem 145

The above table No 3.5 shows that, out of 300 respondents 40%(119) of the respondents faced problem while taking formal training regarding panchayat because of their illiteracy, 19%(57) of the respondents because of their economic condition is low, 20%(59) of the respondents have problem in taking training due to social and educational problems, 10%(31) of the respondents of have all type of problems, 11%(34) of the respondents faced the problem because language, inferiority and social problem. The major problem of the tribal respondents is illiteracy, so that reason any training programme should be reach their level to understand their educational level and consider their social, economic condition, it is better to provide without any burden with their regional accessibility. Problems faced in Political participation It would be appropriate to sum up that there are number of obstacles in the way of effective participation of women respondents of panchayat raj institutions. They may face all kind of obstacles in the field. For this purpose researcher has collected the information about the problems in active participation by the tribal women respondents in study area. Table No 3.6: Problem faced in political participation Sl.No. Problems Frequency Percentage 1 All type, Economic, Social, Political, Cultural 128 43 2 Troubles from upper caste people 45 15 3 * Economical and other problems 94 31 4 Social problems 24 08 5 Problems from influenced groups 07 02 6 Non co-operation from male members 02 01 Total 300 100 146

Figure No 3.6: Problem faced in political participation All type. Economic, Social, Political, Cultural Troubles from upper caste people Economical and other problems Social problems Problems from influenced groups Non co-operation from male members Above table No 3.6 shows that, out of 300 interviewed respondents 43%( 128) of the respondents have faced all type of problems like economic, social, political, cultural, 15%(45) of the respondents have faced the problems in participation because troubles from upper caste people, 31%(94) of the respondents have faced problem of economic and other problem, 08%(24) of the respondents have faced problem in participating in panchayats due to social problem, 02%(07) of the respondents have faced problem by the influenced groups, 01%(02)of the respondents have faced problem of non-cooperation from male members. The table reveals that they have faced all kind of problems like economic, social, political and cultural. Basically study area is most backward and tribal s area in the state; hence respondents in the study area face many problems regarding the participation. In this context, it requires more concentration by the state to develop this region and provide the new economic opportunities for their development is concern. Time spent for panchayat related work Here researcher has made an attempt to know the commitment of the respondents to the panchayat related work. Time spent for the panchayat 147

related work was collected as per day, per week and per month. Different opinion were collected regarding this and analyzed in below tables, 3.7. Table No 3.7: Time spent for panchayat related work per day SL No. No. of Hours Frequency Percentage 1 One hour 1 0.33 2 Two hours 186 62.00 3 Three hours 65 21.67 4 Four hours 46 15.33 5 Five hours 2 0.67 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.7: Time spent for panchayat related work per day 148

The above Table No 3.7 shows that out of 300 respondents one respondent spend per day one hour in panchayat related work, 62%(186) respondents have spent two hours a day, 21.67%(65) of the respondents have spent their time in panchayat related work three hours per day, 15.33%(46) of the respondents have spent time for work four hours per day and 0.67% (2) of the respondents have spent their time on panchayat related work five hours per day. Table No 3.8: Days spend for panchayat related work per week SI. No. No. of Days Frequency Percentage 1 2 days 3 1.00 2 3 days 48 16.00 3 4 days 221 73.67 4 5 days 15 5.00 5 6 days 1 0.33 6 7 days 12 4.00 Total 300 100 149

Figure No 3.8: Days spend for panchayat related work per week The above table No 3.8 shows that out of 300 respondents majority of the respondents (73.67) spent 4 days related work per week. 3 respondents spent their days in panchayat related work is 2 days per week, 16%(48) respondents spent their days on work is 3 days per week, 5%( 15) respondents spent their time on work is 5 days per week, One respondent spent their time on work is 6 days per week, and 4%(12) respondents spent their time on work is 7 days per week. Table No 3.9: Days spend for panchayat related work per Month SI. No. No. of Days Frequency Percentage 1 5-10 days 41 13.66 2 11-15 days 110 36.67 3 16-20 days 99 33.00 4 21-25 days 29 9.67 6 All the days 3 1.00 7 Whenever free 18 6.00 Total 300 100 150

Figure No 3.9: Days spend for panchayat related work per Month 120 Frequency Percentage The above table No 3.9 shows the days spent for panchayat related work per month. Out of 300 respondents, 13.66%(41) respondents spent their days on work is between 5-10days per month, 36.6%(110) respondents have spent their time on work is 11-15 days per month, 33%(99) respondents have spent their days on work is 16-20 days per month, 9.67%(29) respondents have spent days on work is 21-25 days per month, 3 respondents have spent their days on work is all the days in month, and lastly 6%( 18) respondents spent their time whenever they are free. Social stigma faced by the members in political carrier Here, researcher can also trace out the problem faced by the women respondents related to social stigma, which means still there is a discrimination of caste. In the present study out of 300 respondents 20.6% (62) respondents faced social stigma and 79.3%(238) respondents not faced this problem. Here majority of the respondents have not faced the problem of social stigma that means there is change in the society with introduction of new policies and programmes, modem education, legal system and so on. 151

Gender problem of women Like any other social problem gender is also a problem of women, to work in the development activities. Gender sensitiveness affected the nature of work, commitment etc. even scientifically gender has some sort of limitations. Here researcher wanted to know that whether gender is a problem for their rights and duties in the panchayat work. The table No 3.10 shows that the opinion by the respondents regarding gender problem. Table No 3.10: Gender problem of women Sl.No. Response Frequency Percentage 1 Itself not a problem 86 29 2 Yes, it s a problem 97 32 3 One should find out solution 4 1 4 Not a problem 95 32 ' 5 With this problem Women are backward 18 6 Total 300 100 152

Figure No 3.10: Gender problem of women 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Itself not Yes, It's a One Not a With this a problem should problem problem problem find out Women solution are backward Frequency Percentage Above table No 3.10 shows the Gender problem of women participation in politics. Out of 300 respondents 29%(86) respondents think that gender itself not a problem, 32%(97) respondents are felt that it s a problem, 1%(4) respondents have feeling that we have solution for this problem, 32%(95) respondents were think that not at all its treated as a problem, 6%( 18) respondents w'ere think that they backward because gender discrimination. The whole data reveals that positive and negative response to this. Some women are not think that they don t have gender problem, but in other case women are think that gender problem is a main problem to achieve the goal. Problems faced by tribal women in politics Tribal women have faced several problems with respect to the economic, social, political and cultural. Here tribal women were asked the questions in this regard and different opinions were collected by the respondents and are analyzed below. 153

Table No 3.11: Problems faced by tribal women in politics Sl.No. Problems Frequency Percentage 1 Political, social, economic and educational 137 46 2 Social disabilities 24 8 3 All type of traditional problems 96 32 4 Illiteracy, ignorance,& other problems 43 14 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.11: Problems faced by tribal women in politics Above table No 3.11 shows that the Problems faced by tribal women in politics. Out of 300 respondents, 46%(137) respondents having political, social, economical and educational problem, 8%(24) respondents having problem of social disabilities, 32%(96) respondents having all type of traditional problem, and 14%(43) respondents having problem of illiteracy, ignorance and other problems. This data reveals that the majority of respondents are having 154

problem of political, social, economic and educational problems in politics in the study area. Problems pertaining to political participation of tribal women compare to other women At present women reservation policy provided opportunities to tribal women to enter politics as compare to other women. But sometime of problems of tribal s different from general women; it may be cultural, religious, or social. We have collected information pertaining to problems of tribal women compare to general women. The study interprets the opinion regarding the problems pertaining to political participation of tribal women compare to other women. Out of 300 respondents 48% (143) respondents have not faced the problem and 52% (157) respondents have faced this problem. In general women come from the dominant caste they enjoyed the privileges in all respects but whereas in the case of tribal women were neglected, disadvantaged, and they have suffered from many problems compared to the general women. The above data reveal that relatively problems faced by the tribal women have been considerably decreased, because of new policies and programmes for upliftment of tribal women. Problem in discharging the duties Here, study examined on the problems which are faced by elected tribal women while discharging the duties as shown in below explanation. The table No 3.12 shows the difficulties faced by the elected tribal women such as family members, husband, public, political party, other dominate groups and other people. 155

Table No 3.12: Problem in discharging the duties Sl.No. Problems Frequency Percentage 1 Husband 45 15 2 Family members 138 46 3 Publics 56 19 4 Political Party 37 12 5 Other dominate groups 21 07 6 By Others 03 01 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.12: Problem in discharging the duties i Frequency i Percentage Husband Family Publics Political Other Others members Party dominate groups 1 2 3 4 5 6 156

The above table No 3.12 shows the problems faced by the members in discharging their duties. Out of three hundred respondents, 15%(45) respondents have faced this type of problem by their husband, 46%(138) of respondents have problem in discharging the duties by family members, 19%(56) respondents have problem in discharging the duties by publics, 12%(37) respondents have problem in discharging the duties by political party, 7%(21) respondents have problem in discharging the duties by other dominant groups and 1%(3) respondents have discharging the duties by other factors. The study reveals that respondents were agreed that the family members and thenhusband interfere in discharging the duties in day to day functioning of the PRI. Motivational factors and political participation Participation of tribal women representation in politics is mainly motivated by several factors like educational opportunities, empowerment process, changing roles by the women, reservation policy and decentralization of power. Hence, researcher tried to find out the motivating factors of tribal women representation in study area. Table No 3.13 shows the different motivating factors which influence tribal women in take part in politics. 3.13: Motive factors of the women representation in political participation Sl.No. Factors Frequency Percentage 1 Economic empowerment 164 54.67 2 Encourage of literacy 33 11 3 Changing perspectives of women's representation 30 10 ' 4 Women's reservation 27 9 5 Development of women's political capacity 20 6.67 6 Increasing of training and information 26 8.67 Total 300 100 157

Figure No 3.13: Motive factors of the women representation in political participation Economic empowerment Encourage of literacy Changing perspectives of women's representation Women's reservation Development of women's political capacity Increasing of training and information In table No 3.13 shows the motive factors of the women representation in political participation. 54.66%(i64} respondents have motive factor like economic empowerment, 11%(33) respondents have motive factor of encourage in literacy, 10%(30) respondents have motive factor of changing perspectives of women s representation, 9%(27) respondents have motive factor of women reservation, 6.67%(20) respondents have motive of development of women political capacity and 8.67%(26) respondents have motive of increasing in training and information. The data reveals that economic empowerment is the main important motivating factor for tribal women representation in politics. And such other factors also influenced by the motive factors like education, reservation, information, training, enhance the capacity of women representation in politics. Reservation and women The subject of reservation policy has been a controversial one; a section of Indians who are the lower strata of the Indian population is considered to improve their position. The constitution has provided the reservation in services. Originally reservation was made for ten years and it was extended 158

four times and at present the period is further extended upto 2010. Reservation is constitutional right designed to off-set fhe disadvantages of centuries of operation. The present study intends to evaluate the opinion of the women respondents on the desirability of reservation. Hence, their opinion expressed with regard to reservation for tribal women that shows in table No 3.14. Table No 3.14: Reservation and women Sl.No. Opinion Frequency Percentage 1 Policy is helpful and good 150 50 2 More useful 42 14 3 Women should make use of it 23 8 4 Meaningful &respectful development 25 8 5 Don t know 2 1 6 Useful opportunity to women 13 4. 7 Make use of it which provided by the constitutionally 10 3 8 Good system, 33% is required 35 12 Total 300 100 159

Figure No 3.14: Reservation and Women Policy is helpful and good More useful Women should make use of it Meaningful &respectful development Above Table No 3.14, shows that opinion regarding women reservation. Out of 300 respondents 50% (150) respondents were think that reservation policy is helpful and good, 14%(42) respondents felt that women reservation is more helpful, 8%(23) respondents were think that women make use of this policy, 8%(25) respondents were think that it s a meaningful and respectful development, 1%(2) respondents says that don t have any idea, 4%( 13) respondents have felt it s a useful opportunity to women, 3%( 10) respondents have responded to this make use of it which is constitutionally provided and 12%(35) respondents were think that good system and 33% reservation is required(table.3.14). The whole data reveals that the women reservation policy is very helpful and good system to upliftment of tribal women and other marginalized sections. Benefits of women reservation The respondents viewed reservation policy has the only method for the upliftment of the tribals. Here different opinion has collected regarding benefits of reservation from the respondents. The table No 3.15 shows the benefits of women reservation.. 160

Table No 3.15: Benefits of women s reservation SI.No. Opinion Frequency Percentage 1 2 Social, economic, educational, political benefits 27 9 Political entry & equal opportunity to Enhance the status 117 39 3 All type of advantages 128 43 4 Equal opportunity in politics etc 10 3 5 Voting power, entry to politics 18 6 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.15:Benefits of women s reservation Social, economic, educati onal, political benefits Political entry & equal opportunity to Enhance the status All type of advantages I Equal opportunity in politics etc Above table No 3.15 examines that benefit of reservation among tribal women. Out of 300 respondents 9%(27) respondents were benefitted by reservation policy with regard to social, economical, political advantages. 39%( 117) respondents think that reservation policy is benefitted for political entry & equal opportunity to enhance the status, 43%( 148) respondents have 161

opined to this as all type of advantages, 3%(10) respondents have think that reservation make political empowerment & equal opportunity in politics, 6%(18) respondents were think that voting power and entry into politics is provided by the policy. This table reveals that reservation for women provides equal opportunity in all kinds of work and political empowerment. Opinion of the members about their role In accordance with the provisions of 73rd Amendment to the constitution of India 1/3 rd reservation is applicable even to the posts of President, Vicepresidents of PRIs. This means that many women member discharging their duties like President and Vice president of these bodies because of women reservation policy. Let us now make an attempt to evaluate their role and performance of women presidents and Vice-presidents for this purpose. 300 women respondents interviewed by the researcher on the basis of their responses given in table No 3.16. Table No 3.16: Opinion of the members about their role Sl.No. Opinion Frequency Percentage 1 Useful to develop the village 77 25.8 2 To serve the common people 73 24.3 3 Welfare of poor & tribal development 31 10.3 4 Better to help the people 16 5.3 5 Helpful to welfare of tribal women development 12 4 6 Useful to help poor people 27 9 7 No response 21 7 8 Political empowerment, rural development, 43 14.3 Total 300 100 162

Figure No 3.16: Opinion of the members about their role Useful to develop the village To serve the common people Welfare of poor & tribal development Better to help the people Above table No 3.16 explains the opinion of the members about their role. Out of 300 respondents, 25.8%(77) of the respondents were felt that their entry into politics is useful to develop the village, 24.3%(73) of the respondents said that its good opportunity to render sendee to the society, 10.3%(31) of the respondents think that its best opportunities and helpful to welfare of poor and tribal development, 5.3%(16) of the respondents have opined that this position is to help people, 4%( 12) of the respondents have felt that its best opportunity to help tribal women development, 9%(27) of the respondents have think that it s helpful to help poor people, 7%(21) of the respondents don t have any response, 14.3%(43) of the respondents were think that it makes political empowerment and best opportunity to develop rural areas. This whole data reveals that respondents got good opportunity to work for rural development and tribal development. Political dominance and Gender Gender bias is not confined to homes alone. But also, women face gender discrimination even at workplace. Gender inequality is reflected even in political field also. Constitutionally women are declared equal and given equal opportunities to achieve equal status but in practice, women are not treated as 163

being equal with men in politics. Against this background the present study attempts to find out the male dominance in politics. The study interprets the data related to male dominance in politics. 98%(293) of the respondents are said that there is male dominance in politics and only 2%(7) of the respondents said there is no dominance of male member in politics. This data reveals that most of the women are still thinking there is a male dominancy in politics. Opinion of the members about their backwardness The researcher examined with a view of finding out the opinion of the members about their backwardness. 300 respondents were interviewed for this assessment. The study shows that out of 300 respondents^ 1 %(274) respondents said that we are backward and 9%(26) said that respondents are not backward than male representatives. This data reveals that when compare to male, the women respondents were backward because many years women were deprived in all respect that too in politics with the implementation of constitution and equal rights. Now women are coming forward in the political arena. Awareness about rights and duties among women respondents Awareness about the prevailing political system is essential for the functioning of the members to enhance and facilitate their performance. The term awareness is used here to indicate the extent of knowledge of the members that may be linked with panehayat raj system regarding their rights and duties by the respondents. Before entering any field one should know the duties and rights. Likewise here women respondents who are entered the grass root politics they should know their rights and duties. The table No 3.17 shows different opinion regarding rights and duties by the women respondents. 164

Table No 3.17: Awareness about rights and duties among women respondents Sl.No. Awareness Frequency Percentage 1 Through training 150 50 2 From other panchayat male members 57 19 3 From family 68 22.67 4 From political party 23 7.66 5 From others 02 0.67 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.17: Awareness about rights and duties among women respondents 160 Frequency Percentage Through From other From family training panchayat male members From political party From others Table No 3.17 shows the awareness about rights and duties among women respondents. Out of 300 respondents 50%( 150) respondents have got awareness through training. 19%(57) respondents have received awareness through from other panchayat male members. 23.33%(68) respondents got 165

awareness from family, 0.8%(23) respondents have got awareness from political party and 0.67%(02) respondents have got awareness from others. The data reveals that awareness about politics received by the women respondents through various ways. The level of participation in panchayat meeting The interest in participation of women in politics mainly shows their participation of panchayat meetings. The researcher made an attempt to know the level of participation in meetings of panchayats the purpose was to find out to what extent women member participated effectively and freely in the deliberations of the meetings. The responses to these queries are tabular form as depicted in table No 3.18. This computation has been done after interviewing 300 elected women members. Table No 3.18: The level of participation in panchayat meeting Sl.Nd. Level Participation Frequency Percentage 1 Silent spectator 119 40 2 Actively take part in decisions 59 20 3 Give opinion 57 19 4 Talk only when asked 31 10 5 Take both sides 34 11 Total 300 100 166

Figure No 3.18: The level of participation in panchayat meeting Silent Actively Give Talk only Take both spectator take part opinion when sides in asked decisions Above Table No 3.18 shows the level of participation in panchayat meeting. Out of 300 women respondents 40%(119) respondents participated as silent spectator, 20%(59) respondents participated as actively take part in decisions. 19%(57) respondents level of participation is to give opinion, 10%(31) respondents response to this is talk only when they asked and 11%(34) respondents level of participation is as take both sides. The whole data reveals that women members are not aware of what exactly being transacted in these meetings. A strange thing to be observed in this context is that most women members have less education and did not come from highly educated family. Therefore even their participation in deliberation in the meetings such participation is nominal not at all effective. Participating in meeting with other Here, researcher collected information about participating in meeting with other. Here different opinions received by the respondents. 167

Table No 3.19: Participating in meeting with other Sl.No. Accompanied by Frequency Percentage 1 Husband 26 9 2 Brother 10 3 3 Daughter 5 2 4 Alone 255 85 5 Anybody 4 1 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.19: Participating in meeting with other Husband Brother Daughter Alone Anybody Above table No 3.19 shows the information about whether respondents are attending meeting alone or with someone. 9%(26) respondents attended meetings with husband. 3%(10) respondents attended panchayat meetings with their brother, 2%(5) respondents attended meetings with their daughter. While 85%(255) respondents attended their meetings alone, 1%(4) respondents attend meetings with their friends or relatives. The whole data reveals that the majority of the respondents attended panchayat meetings alone without any 168

accompany, this shows that tribal women are empowered politically and have courage in politics. Dual role of respondents Here collected information about dual role in discharging household work and panchayat work. While discharging duties as panchayat member have problem in both the side of work they have to maintain at household work and panchayats work. Different opinions collected by the respondents and discussed here. Out of 300 respondents, 49%(146) respondents were think that there is a problem in handling household work and panchayat work but in other side 51%(154) respondents were felt that there is no problem in maintaining the household and panchayat work. The data reveals that the women respondents have equal response to this question. Decision-making and consultation Here researcher wanted to know the how the respondents while taking any important decision to whom they consult or taking independent decision in the panchayat related activities. The table No 3.20 shows different opinion about consultancy. Table No 3.20: Decision making and consultation Sl.No. Consult with Frequency Percentage 1 Male colleagues 23 8 2 Other own panchayat member 150 50 3 Family members 02 0.67 4 Political Party 57 19 5 Own 68 22.33 Total 300 100 169

Figure No. 3.20: Decision making and consultation Frequency Percentage Male colleagues Other own panchayat Family members Political Party Own member 1 2 3 4 5 Above table No 3.20 shows that the data regarding the important decision with whom they consult. 8% (23) respondents have taken decision in consultation with male colleagues, 50% (150) respondents have consulted with other own panchayat member, 0.67% (02) respondents have got consultation from family members, 19% (57) respondents have received consultation from political party and 22.33%(68) respondents have consulted with themselves. Here whole data reveals that the majority of respondents were received consultation from own panchayat members. Encouragement from male persons to participate in administration and politics Here study examines the majority of male persons encourage women to participate in local administration and politics. In this case different opinions collected by the respondents that are analyzed here. 170

Out of 300 respondents, 72% (215) respondents were told that they have got more encouragement by male to participate in local administration and politics, and 28% (85) respondents did not get any encouragement by male member to participate in local administration. The whole data reveals that the majority of women respondents were have got encouragement by male members in local administration and politics. Factors responsible for participation of women Here, researcher has made an attempt to find out the main factors in participation of women. Some major factors found here by the researcher which are collected by the women respondents. Below table No 3.21 shows the detailed analysis of this. Table No 3.21: Factors responsible for participation of women Sl.No. Factors Frequency Percentage 1 Family background 98 33 2 Education 29 10 3 Socialization 5 2 4 Political interest 27 9 5 Training 51 17 6 Husband s support 4 1 7 Money 19 6 8 Gender 1 0 9 Others 66 22 Total 300 100 171

Figure No 3.21: Factors responsible for participation of women i Frequency i Percentage Family background Education Socialization Political interest Training Husband s support Money Gender others Above table No 3.21, shows the factors responsible for participation of women perceived by the respondents. Out of 300 respondents, 33% (98) respondents have said that the factor that family background is respondents, 10%(29) respondents have stressed that main factor to participation in politics is education, 2%(5) respondents have told that socialization factor, 9%(27) respondents have told that their interest in politics, 17%(51) respondents have responded that responsible factor is training, 1%(4) respondents have told that husband s support is main factor, 6% (19) respondents were felt that money is important factor, 0%( 1) respondents think that gender is factor to participate in politics, 22%(66) respondents were think that other factors are important to participate in the political field. The data reveals that the as per the respondents perception and researcher perception, family background and also other factor influence them to participate in the politics. 172

Women reservation and contesting in election There is relationship between reservation and contesting in elections. With this idea, researcher has collected information about women reservation and contesting in election. Out of 300 respondents, 76%(229) respondents have opined that because of women s reservation we contested in panchayat election. And 24%(71) said that without reservation we would not contest in the election. This data reveals that the majority of respondents agreed that that without reservation they could not contest in election. Opinion regarding the rotation system for President and Vice- President In political system there is rotation system in all the levels of panchayats, they have some sort of advantages and disadvantages. Here researcher had collected information regarding this; opinions by the respondents were depicted in given table below No.3.22. 173

Table No 3.22: Opinion regarding the rotation system for President/Vice President SI.No. Opinion Frequency Percentage 1 For the power 74 24.66 2 Equal opportunity 79 26.33 3 One must get respect 2 0.67 4 One should hand over the power 17 5.67 5 Don t know 12 4 6 Political opportunities 50 16.67 7 Benefit for the women 31 10.33 8 9 All will enjoy the power in this system 14 4.67 Some people get benefitted but others not 16 5.33 10 Ideal system 5 1.67 Total 300 100 Figure No 3.22: Opinion regarding the rotation system for President/Vice President O O Q O O O O O O y 1 1 1 m 1 % Li i. J l> y For th e pow er Cqual opportunity o CL v/l O o cc s/» o 6 O ne should hand over th e pow er D on t know Political opportunities Benefit for th e w o m en All will enjoy th e pow er in this 5 71 S o m e p eo p le g et b en efitted but others not Ideal system Frequency Percentage 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 5 C 10 174

Above table No 3.22 examines the opinion regarding the rotation system in Taluk panchayat and Zilla panchayayat. 24.66%(74) respondents think that this system is for enjoyment of power, 26.33%(79) respondents felt that through this system they get equal opportunity in the field, 0.67%(2) respondents think that through this system they will get respect, 5.67%(17) respondents felt that in through this system one should hand over the power,4%(12) respondents felt that don t have any idea regarding this, 16.67%(50) respondents think that the system is provided political opportunities to the women respondents, 10.33%(31) respondents felt this system is benefitted to them, 4.67%(14) respondents think that in this system all will get and enjoy power, 5.33%(16) respondents are think that by this system some are benefitted and others not, and 1.67%(5) respondents opined that it s a ideal system. The whole data which analyzed here is that majority of the respondents have good opinion regarding rotation system though it has some limitations respondents wanted to get the benefit from this system. Women s personal and self decision and appreciation Here, researcher observed that whether male members are appreciated the women respondents personal and self decision. Different opinion has been collected and analyzed here. Data examined the women s personal and self decision is appreciated by male members. Out of 300 respondents, 86%(259) respondents told that their personal and self decision were appreciated by the male members and 14%(41) respondents told that there is no appreciation for personal and self decision by male members. This data reveals that most of the respondents got appreciation by the male members but small portion of the respondents are not getting the appreciation by the male members. 175