Political Volunteers in India: Experiences of Women

There have been several powerful women leaders in Indian politics. Available literature documenting women’s experiences in Indian politics have been drawn from the lived experiences of elected members of parliament, with little attention paid to political workers. This paper traces the journey of seven political volunteers from India, who identify as women and have worked with political parties for 5 years or more. The study employs a qualitative approach to thematically analyze data about the life-worlds of party workers. Motivations to volunteer with political parties were explored. The relationship between gender and the policing of behavior was an emergent theme. The role social media played in influencing women volunteers’ experiences was revelatory. Insights emerged on coping mechanisms employed by the participants, and sources of support.