In a trailblazing moment for Nagaland and Indian politics, S Phangnon Konyak, a distinguished BJP leader and the first woman Rajya Sabha MP from the state, etched her name in history by assuming the role of presiding over the Rajya Sabha. This remarkable achievement marks a significant step forward in gender representation and empowerment in the country’s political landscape.
Hailing from Nagaland, S Phangnon Konyak has been actively involved in politics and holds the esteemed position of State President of BJP Mahila Morcha in her region. Her political journey reached new heights when she secured a seat as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, becoming the first woman from Nagaland to achieve this feat in April 2022.
Adding another feather to her cap, S Phangnon Konyak attained yet another groundbreaking milestone on July 17, 2023. She was appointed as the inaugural woman member to the panel of vice-chairpersons, making history once again.
Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, took a remarkable step towards promoting gender equality by nominating four women members, accounting for 50% representation, to the panel of Vice-Chairpersons. This historic decision sets a precedent as it is the first time in the Upper House’s history where women members received equal representation in this esteemed panel.
Alongside S Phangnon Konyak, three other accomplished women members were appointed to the panel of Vice-Chairpersons, including PT Usha, Dr. Fauzia Khan from the Nationalist Congress Party, and Sulata Deo from the Biju Janata Dal. Their collective presence in this influential panel represents a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and women’s representation in the highest legislative body of India.
The strides towards gender representation and empowerment in Nagaland’s political arena have been remarkable. Earlier this year, on 7th March, Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Hekani Jakhalu, both representing the ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, made history by becoming the first women candidates to be elected in the state assembly election. This achievement holds profound significance as it marks the first time in 60 years since Nagaland attained statehood that two women candidates have been elected to the state assembly, further breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity in political leadership.
As S Phangnon Konyak assumes the role of presiding over the Rajya Sabha, her journey stands as an inspiration for aspiring women leaders across the nation. Her historic achievements pave the way for greater gender equality and representation in the Indian political landscape.