These states continue to face significant challenges in advancing women and girls’ empowerment and ensuring their meaningful participation in decision-making spaces. Harmful practices such as child marriage, dowry, gender-biased sex ratios, and deeply rooted patriarchal and caste-based norms continue to restrict the choices, mobility, and opportunities available to women and girls. Women in leadership roles also often face persistent barriers in carrying out their responsibilities, including harassment, intimidation, and social hostility. Constant scrutiny and resistance within public and household spaces create additional challenges that affect their ability to function effectively and participate confidently in local democracy.