Debate: Have all political parties given women candidates a raw deal?

Karnataka is witnessing a sort of "male-dominated" election process. The under-representation of women in Parliament from the State will continue as women, like in every election, have been given a raw deal in the distribution of ticket by major political parties for the general elections.

This time, the ruling Congress has fielded 16 women among its 229 candidates (less than 7%) declared so far and the BJP six. The Janata Dal (S) has four women among its 126 candidates.

While the Congress appears to have done better than the other parties, a closer look at the list reveals the selection of women candidates is a 'customary' gesture. Is it fair on part of political parties to let down the women leaders, who represent 49% voters.

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