The recently released final electoral rolls for 2025 by the Election Commission highlight a remarkable trend of women voters outnumbering male voters in four northeastern states—Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Key Findings:
- Higher Gender Ratios in the Northeast:
- Manipur: 1,070 women voters per 1,000 men.
- Mizoram: 1,066 women voters per 1,000 men.
- Arunachal Pradesh: 1,037 women voters per 1,000 men.
- Meghalaya: 1,028 women voters per 1,000 men.
- These figures are significantly higher than the national electoral gender ratio of 948.
- National Trends:
- The national gender ratio on electoral rolls increased from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024, indicating an improving trend nationwide.
- Regional Significance:
- The northeastern states consistently show better gender representation in electoral rolls, reflecting broader gender equity in political participation compared to other regions.
Implications:
- Enhanced Women’s Political Participation:
- The higher proportion of women voters indicates their increasing role in the democratic process.
- This trend may influence the political discourse and policy priorities in these states.
- Sociocultural Context:
- States like Meghalaya, which follow matrilineal traditions, likely contribute to higher gender parity.
- Improved literacy and awareness levels in these regions might also play a role.
- Positive National Trends:
- The nationwide improvement in the electoral gender ratio reflects ongoing efforts to ensure gender inclusivity in electoral rolls.
