Husbands are sworn in for elected women leaders

In a village in rural India, six women were elected to local government positions. However, during the swearing-in ceremony, each woman was represented by her husband instead. This incident occurred on March 3 in Paraswara village, Chhattisgarh, and went viral as it showcased a common issue: the sidelining of female leaders. The practice of husbands stepping in for their wives is frequent in rural areas of India. This situation arises despite national laws that aim to ensure women's representation in village councils, known as panchayats. Since 1992, these rules have set aside one-third to half of the council seats for women to encourage female leadership. Despite these regulations, the intent is often overlooked. Women elected to these councils frequently find themselves in subordinate roles, effectively serving their husbands rather than leading on their own. The term "pradhan pati," meaning "boss husband," is used to describe this dynamic in which men take control of positions meant for women. The gap between the law and real life continues to challenge female empowerment in rural communities.