Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently made headlines in poll-bound Kerala by expressing his desire for a woman chief minister. However, the party has fielded only nine women candidates, accounting for less than 10% of its total nominees.
Analysts believe Gandhi's statement was a calculated move to endorse the Congress-led United Democratic Front manifesto, which promises welfare and women's empowerment.
Women voters have played a crucial role in poll outcomes in places like Bihar, thanks to initiatives such as the cash deposit scheme.
However, in a state like Kerala, where awareness levels and ambitions are higher, Gandhi's mere expression of desire may not be enough to galvanize women voters.
Only 12 states and one Union territory have had 18 women chief ministers since 1963, with only two women currently holding the position.
India has had women presidents, prime ministers, and speakers of the Lok Sabha, but only a few women have headed political parties.
The representation of women in the legislatures remains dismal, but women have outnumbered men in voting in states like Kerala.
