Hyderabad: Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Seethakka said democracy lasting change could only be achieved through democratic processes, citing her own journey from armed struggle to electoral politics as an example.
Speaking at the “SheSparks 2026” event on Saturday, Seethakka described her transition from “bullet to ballot” as proof that democracy lasting change could reshape both individuals and societies. The event brought together women leaders from different professional fields across the country.
Seethakka said her personal experiences reflected the strength of democratic institutions. She recalled that she had once appeared in court as an accused person. Later, she returned to the same judicial setting as a lawyer presenting arguments.
According to the Minister, the Indian Constitution made that transformation possible. She said constitutional guarantees and democratic systems allowed individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute to society.
Seethakka highlights democracy lasting change through women leadership
Seethakka spoke about her life experiences and ministerial decisions while responding to questions from organisers at the event. The programme was organised by a national media organisation at IIT Delhi.
During the interaction, she stressed that democracy lasting change required active participation from women. She said women played a crucial role in shaping society and strengthening democratic institutions.
Seethakka also praised the organisers for bringing together influential women leaders from across sectors. She said the presence of women from entrepreneurship, research, information technology, writing, arts and public administration had been inspiring.
According to her, such gatherings helped expand women’s leadership opportunities. They also encouraged dialogue among professionals who were contributing to social and economic transformation.
Government initiatives support women in democracy lasting change
The Minister also outlined initiatives of the Telangana government aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment. She said the programmes supported broader goals of democracy lasting change by improving participation in economic development.
Seethakka said around 46 lakh women across Telangana had formed Self-Help Groups through the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP). These groups were actively participating in socio-economic development across rural areas.
She explained that the government had expanded access to banking services for these women. It also supported small and medium enterprises through credit facilities and financial linkages.
In addition, the State had created market access opportunities for women-led enterprises. As a result, many women were becoming job creators rather than job seekers.
Seethakka said empowering women economically strengthened families and communities. Therefore, she added, women’s leadership remained central to achieving democracy lasting change across society.