Women's involvement in Indian politics is still restricted, despite legislative orders and constitutional clauses. This study looks at the gendered and structural obstacles that prevent meaningful engagement. This includes patriarchal party structures, financial limitations, sociocultural norms, and intersectional disadvantages that affect Dalit, tribal, and rural women. The potential and limitations of the Women's Reservation Bill in advancing substantive representation are examined. From Kerala's women-led Panchayats to the "Sarpanch Pati" phenomenon, case studies highlight both obstacles and effective empowerment tactics. To close the gap between symbolic presence and true political leadership in India. The study also highlights the necessity of institutional support, capacity-building, legal enforcement, and societal change