Let there be Light: Women in the Grassroot Politics in Bangladesh

The government of Bangladesh has recently introduced the provision of universal adult franchise in the reserved seats for women in local government institutions of the country to integrate half of the population in the decision-making process. It is important in this context, the extent to which this system of women representation in local government body contributes to women’s political participation and empowerment and also to what extent they are able to perform their due roles. The present study explores these issues based on field level data. The study finds that the provision of direct election in the quota seats contributes to develop significant enthusiasm among women to participate in politics. The study, however, finds that women face severe hurdles and resistance from their male counterparts performing their due roles. Furthermore, the women as first timer in the political arena experience difficulties in understanding and performing their roles and responsibilities. The study therefore recommends further legal safeguards, training and social awareness programmes for effective participation and empowerment of women in the local government system of the country.