Exploring the Participation of Dalit Women Versus Women of Other Castes in Panchayati Raj in Rajasthan, India: A Study in Contrasts

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2011-05
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Abstract
This research uses a feminist analytical approach to explore the intersectionality of caste and gender in the experiences of Dalit women, and women of other castes, in their roles as elected representatives in Panchayati Raj Institutions in two districts in rural Rajasthan, India. The study took place in November 2008 with 24 women of various castes, as well as NGO leaders, and NGO workers; research methods included semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and one focus group. The study found that the experiences of Dalit women, and women of other castes, are similar however with some important exceptions. For example, Dalit women are more likely to face gender and caste discrimination in their respective panchayats. Additionally, although all Dalit women in the study felt they were treated equally on their panchayat councils, compared to upper caste women, many expressed the reality that Dalits continue to face discrimination in society.
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Bibliography: p. 184-196.
Includes copy of Certification of Institutional Ethics Review. Original with original copy of Partial Copyright Licence.
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Citation
McWilliams, K. (2011). Exploring the Participation of Dalit Women Versus Women of Other Castes in Panchayati Raj in Rajasthan, India: A Study in Contrasts (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/15943
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