The term 'political participation' has a very wide definition. It is not only related to 'Right to Vote', but simultaneously relates to participation in decision-making process, political activism, political consciousness, etc. Women in India participate in voting, run for public offices and political parties at a significantly lower rate than men. Historically, women were substantially involved in the Freedom Movement and advocated for gender equality in the form of constitutional rights, but historically women's political participation has remained low.

Women in India face several challenges while running for political office, such as illiteracy, work burdens within the household, discriminatory attitudes towards women as leaders. Women also lack leadership experience due to the fact they are burdened with household duties. The burden of household duties is a significant reason why many Indian women do not participate in public life. Other Socio-economic conditions, such as poverty and illiteracy, often prevent the entrance of women into running for public office, and even voting.