Challenges Faced by Women Sarpanchs Due to Patriarchal Pressure

Women’s Participation in Governance & Planning

Despite being elected, many women sarpanchs in Gujarat face control by male family members, earning them the label “sarpanch pati.” Voices from Mahila Sarpanch Manch highlight the intense social and familial pressure, especially in low-literacy villages, which limits women’s autonomy and participation in governance.