Removal of women elected representative can't be treated lightly: SC

The Supreme Court has reinstated a woman sarpanch from a village in Maharashtra, emphasizing that the removal of an elected representative, particularly a woman from a rural area, should not be taken lightly. A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan overturned a decision that had disqualified Manish Ravindra Panpatil, the sarpanch of Vichkheda in Jalgaon district, after unverified allegations that she lived in a house built on government land.

The court criticized the villagers' attempts to oust Panpatil, noting that they may have struggled to reconcile with a woman making decisions on their behalf. The bench stated that such incidents highlight the ongoing challenge of achieving gender parity and women’s empowerment, particularly in public office.

Panpatil had been removed following complaints from fellow villagers, claiming she resided with her mother-in-law in a house on government land. However, Panpatil denied the accusations, stating she lived separately with her husband and children. The allegations led to her disqualification, first by the local collector and then by the divisional commissioner, without any substantial fact-finding or verification.

The Supreme Court criticized the lack of thorough investigation and labeled the removal as disproportionate and potentially discriminatory. The bench observed that systemic prejudices against women continue to persist in administrative processes, especially when women are elected through reserved quotas.

In its September 27 ruling, the court expressed concern over the casual manner in which Panpatil was removed, stressing that authorities must foster a more supportive environment for women in leadership positions. The Bombay High Court’s previous order confirming her removal was set aside, and Panpatil was allowed to resume her duties as sarpanch until the completion of her term.

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