Elections 2026: Why parties keep women out of the race

Women are everywhere during elections, at rallies, in campaigns, and at polling booths. In Kerala and Tamil Nadu, they even outnumber men as voters.

But when it comes to contesting elections, women are still missing from candidate lists.

In this ground report, we look at why political parties continue to field fewer women candidates, the reasons they give, and the patterns that emerge, from “unwinnable seats” to questions over merit and winnability.

Elections are not just about who wins, but about the questions that often go unasked – and this time, they matter more than ever. Support our new NL Sena on the five upcoming assembly polls to help us follow the missing voters, the shifting politics, and the stories that could shape India’s future.

This report was republished from The News Minute as part of The News Minute-Newslaundry alliance. Read about our partnership here and become a subscriber here.