Sevakidevi Das Tatma

Sevakidevi Das Tatma in Politics

Sevakidevi Das Tatma is a woman leader who emerged from the Madhesh movement. While many women become politically active before marriage and later withdraw from public life, her political journey is the opposite she began her active political engagement after marriage, with the support of her husband, father-in-law, and elder brother-in-law. In 2060 BS during the Madhesh movement, she started participating in various political programs. She worked extensively across villages in the Tarai, raising awareness about the Madhesh movement and Madhesi rights.

During the movement, she was also known for her courageous nature. On one occasion, when police attempted to confront her, she resisted and reportedly held them briefly before they were later released after apologizing. Her strong and bold attitude became an inspiration for many during the agitation. At that time, the Madhesi Jana Adhikar Forum was leading the movement, and she was an active member of the party. She also supported the party during elections, and after it secured a strong mandate, she was elected as a Constituent Assembly member through proportional representation.

Later, following ideological differences, the party split and she joined Madhesi Jana Adhikar Forum Nepal (Democratic). When this faction also divided, she aligned with the group led by Sharad Singh Bhandari, which formed the Rashtriya Madhesh Samajwadi Party. She currently serves as the Central Treasurer of the party.

Challenges for women Participating in elections:

Politics is considered particularly difficult in Madhesh compared to other regions. For women, entering politics is even more challenging, as they must first overcome discrimination from both the state and their own family and society. After that, gaining trust within political parties and securing a position is another major hurdle. Political parties often do not provide financial support during elections and tend to limit women to numerical representation without giving them real responsibilities. A common mindset within party leadership is the belief that women cannot take on political roles.

Key areas to focus on for women in politics:

To bring more women into politics, an environment must be created where they can engage comfortably with society. Women who are already fully occupied with household and social responsibilities, can find time to engage in internal party struggles unless their social conditions improve. Therefore, there is a need to ensure women are treated with dignity and equality in society. Once this foundation is built, women should be gradually given responsibilities at the local level, such as ward and village units, along with proper training. Over time, they should be prepared to take on leadership roles at district and national levels. Women’s equal representation in key decision-making institutions such as the Constituent Assembly, constitutional bodies, and the National Planning Commission should be encouraged.

Key qualities of women political leaders:

Not only for women but for any political leader, the most important requirement is strong political qualities such as the ability to cooperate with others, clearly express one’s views, and remain patient and confident. These qualities help leaders gain support, move forward, and achieve political success. However, since both society and politics in Nepal are largely male dominated, she stresses that women must also develop the capacity to compete equally with male politicians.

Advice for young women political leaders:

Women should be encouraged towards leadership in politics. People place their trust in leaders who demonstrate a strong and resilient character. Political workers should be capable of facing any situation, understanding public issues, and actively working toward solving the problems of society and the people. Slogans and theoretical ideas alone are not enough to gain public trust and support. Even while engaging in politics, individuals must remain focused on the needs of the people rather than personal interests. Political leaders should be conscious, responsible, and committed to working for the welfare of society.