In a recent case, SC while offering relief to Woman Sarpanch removed by District Administration in a Maharashtra village highlighted resistance faced by EWRs in Panchayats.

Issues faced by EWRs in Rural Areas

• Rubber Stamps Candidates: Actual decision-making powers lies with husbands/male family members.
• Gender Biases and Social Barriers: Domestic Responsibilities along with prejudiced attitude towards EWRs limits possibility for bringing social change. 
• States’ Policies as Barrier: Some states like Rajasthan have two-child norm or minimum educational qualification as criteria for contesting elections. 
• Rotation of Seats: EWRs often have to discontinue after serving a single term due to rotation.
• Other Issues: Digital divide, Lack of Knowledge, apprehensions about ability, cultural Constraints etc.

Way forward on facilitating EWRs

• Institutional Reforms: recruiting more women in other Panchayat roles like Panchayat Secretary, institutionalized monitoring to restrict interference by their male counterparts in their work.
• Strengthening Women Collective Agency: Nurturing federations of EWRs, mobilizing forums like Self Help Groups, etc. 
• Others: Investing in capacity building through education; coherent and updated data for comprehensive assessment, etc.