This article reports on a research investigation into gender and local government in Mumbai in India and London in England.In both these cities female representation at the political level stands at around one third, achieved in London slowly in recent years and in Mumbai more rapidly through the adoption of a quota, or seat reservation system, implemented in 1992. In considering the experience of the women concerned it is argued that their presence and aspirations have been influenced through the networks of their respective women's movements, operating through civil society and the local state. In considering the ways in which they organize and manage the duties of office and their gendered identities, as well as in their focus on the most disadvantaged in their communities and in their dealings with others, the part played by social movements in influencing change is examined. Introductory commentsT his article reports findings from a research investigation into gender and local government which has been in progress for a number of years. Beginning in England in the late 1980s, the investigation was extended to India in order to consider the impact of the 30 per cent seat reservation, or quota system, for local women politicians which has been in operation in

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This paper considers the role of gender in urban governance, taking Mumbai (formerly Bombay) in India as case study. Findings are presented from a research programme involving both female and male politicians and administrators in order to explore the ways in which women and men undertake the duties of public office. In attempting to take account of the historical traditions of Indian local governance, in the current post‐colonial context, characterized not simply by difference, division and hierarchy but also by tolerance, diversity, locality and collective values, it is argued: first that women are held in high regard, seen as competent, fair and flexible in their dealings with others; and second that women’s increasing presence may be bringing enhanced levels of respectability to local governance.

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