The differences in equality and equity need to be enhanced in contemporary gender policy framing in India. Gender parity or equality measures, such as quotas for women in legislative bodies, ineffectively, and sometimes adversely, seek to induce women’s empowerment, which is an equity concern. An analysis of the passive effects of women quotas at different legislative levels and the deep-rooted problems of agency that attenuate such policies is undertaken. It is found that reservations for women are important, however, its effect on gender parity is more profound at institutions that empower women at the grassroots level. Further, enabling women to participate in the electoral system at an individual level is more desirable than being token representatives in Indian politics.
