Who Is Sambhavi Choudhary? Youngest Dalit Woman In Lok Sabha Polls

While India has seen prominent women in politics, there persists a gap, far and wide, that remains when it comes representation of women in power. With more women coming forward to not just vote but also file for candidacy in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, it will be interesting to the change in the political landscape. In recent news that extends this development, a young Dalit woman is working to make strides in power. 25-year-old scholar Sambhavi Choudhary has become the youngest Dalit woman to fight for a seat in Lok Sabha elections as she secured the ticket for Lok Sabha from the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) party. LJP fielded Choudhary from the Samastipur constituency, a reserved seat in Bihar.

Who Is Sambhavi Choudhary?

Hailing from a political family in Bihar, Choudhary's candidature not only symbolised a generational shift but also brought focus to the fight for wider Dalit representation in Indian politics. The 25-year-old graduated from Lady Shriram College (LSR), and studied master's in sociology at the Delhi School of Economics before pursuing a doctorate on a significant topic 'Intersectionality of gender and caste in Bihar politics.' 

Being a third-generation politician, Choudhary is the daughter of Ashok Kumar Choudhary, a prominent JD(U) Minister in Bihar and grand-daughter of former Bihar minister Mahavir Choudhary from Congress. She is married to Saayan Kunal, son of a philanthropist, scholar and former IPS officer Acharya Kishore Kunal. 

While Choudhary's lineage might have provided initial recognition, it was her own qualifications and determination that garnered respect. Media interviews showcased her sharp intellect and in-depth understanding of the social and political landscape of Bihar, particularly regarding gender and caste dynamics. 

Choudhary's representation has served as a beacon of hope for young Dalit women across the country, demonstrating the possibility of breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated sphere of Indian politics. It is a reminder of the growing political consciousness among women and their determination to fight for equitable representation.