BEING AN MC MEMBER ISA GREAT LEARNING EXPERIENCE | Bengaluru News
WOMEN SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO HOLD MEANINGFUL POSITIONS
Women are allowed in managing committees, sometimes to appear progressive, but more importantly to bring in balanced leadership, diverse perspectives, and inclusive decision-making.
While some committees may practice tokenism, real progress happens when women hold meaningful positions.
Rajni Roy, GENERAL SECRETARY, OLIVE BLOCK, RAHEJA RESIDENCY, KORAMANGALA 3RD BLOCK (96 FLATS)
IF YOU CAN THINK AND ACT, PEOPLE WILL LISTEN
Serving as a management committee member in a Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) offers invaluable learning opportunities. One gains significant insights into various facets of community administration and governance.
That said, being the Honorary President of a very large society is not easy. We have residents from diverse backgrounds. But if you can think and act, then people will listen.
I feel today people are more open to seeing a woman leading from the front.
Surabhi Poddar, PRESIDENT, PRESTIGE SHANTINIKETAN (3003 UNITS)
COMMITTED TO FOSTERING
A WELL-MAINTAINED AND VIBRANT COMMUNITY
A home is well-managed by a woman, and a home without a woman is always incomplete. The same applies to any governance.
As a management committee member, my key priorities have been to ensure uninterrupted and sustainable water supply, address challenges through resource optimization, waste reduction, and provide better infrastructure solutions.
I have also spearheaded community engagement initiatives, including a highly successful sports event that brought together 1,000 participants—a milestone in strengthening community spirit through athletic activities.
As a dedicated mother and director of operations at Ejyle Technologies, I juggle multiple responsibilities. My ability to balance professional excellence, community service, and motherhood defines my leadership journey.
Kani Mozhi S, PRESIDENT, BRIGADE METROPOLIS ( 1625 UNITS)
WOMEN FACE DISCRIMINATION
IN
Female members encounter bias within management committees (MCs), particularly in situations where male colleagues dominate leadership roles and maintain attitudes of superiority. There is often a preconceived notion that women lack knowledge or expertise in certain areas. During regular meetings, their participation is sometimes disregarded, and when they offer suggestions, they are met with dismissive responses.
One of my biggest achievements has been transforming heated WhatsApp quarrels into smooth, constructive conversations, fostering a more harmonious community. Additionally, when residents of a nearby slum were using our compound wall fencing to tie wires and dry clothes, I chose to handle the situation with a personal touch. Instead of enforcing strict measures, I visited them, explained the importance of maintaining the fencing, and engaged them in a respectful conversation. They appreciated the concern and voluntarily removed the heavy wires, demonstrating that empathy and dialogue can be powerful tools for resolution.
Women residents often reach out to me with their concerns, knowing they might not have been addressed as effectively by a male-led MC.
Deepthi Suri, PRESIDENT, CHARITHA CLASSIC APARTMENT, VARTHUR ROAD (100 UNITS)
I QUIT RECENTLY……
I resigned from the MC of Raintree Boulevard Apartment Owners Association on March 2, 2025.
I had a three-point agenda when I sought to be elected. When I achieved about 90% of what I sought to achieve, I decided to quit.
Usha Prabhakar, FORMER MC MEMBER, L& T RAINTREE BOULEVARD APARTMENT, BELLARY ROAD (2241 UNITS)
WOMEN CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT
WHERE EVERY VOICE IS VALUED
I’m dedicated to building a neighbourhood where everyone feels heard, supported, and connected. It’s a privilege to lead and contribute to the growth of our community.
By listening and working together, women create an environment where every voice is valued.
Women leaders in RWAs are committed to improving the community and making residents feel at home.
While discrimination against women in RWA does exist in some places, I’m fortunate to be part of an executive committee that values inclusivity and diversity. A supportive environment like this helps us make the best decisions for our community.
Kiruthigha Rajasekaran, PRESIDENT, PRESTIGE KEW GARDENS, YEMALUR (979 UNITS)
WOMEN ARE EMPATHETIC AND COMPASSIONATE
BUT HESITANT TO TAKE ON LEADERSHIP ROLES
“Serving on the managing committee of our apartment association for three terms- as joint secretary and committee member- has been a rewarding yet challenging experience. One thing that’s struck me is the hesitation among women to take on leadership roles in apartment associations, largely due to the immense workload involved in managing aspects like electricity, water supply, and compliance.
However, I’m proud to say that our association has been supportive of women in leadership positions. In my experience, women bring a unique approach to management. We tend to be more empathetic, diplomatic, and solution-focused, avoiding aggressive or extreme measures whenever possible. This approach has helped us build stronger relationships with residents, vendors, and government officials, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and well-managed community.
I hope that more women will be encouraged to take on leadership roles in apartment associations, bringing their unique perspectives and strengths to the table.”
A SOCIETY IS LIKE A HOME, BUT WE FACE A LOT OF RESISTANCE
Women are born multitaskers. Similar to the divine Goddess Durga with her ten hands, females possess a natural ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Managing a housing society is like running a family. It needs constant attention to resolve issues, collaborative efforts, and the ability to overcome challenges. From understanding rules and regulations to making critical decisions, I’ve had to constantly adapt and grow. This role demands tough choices. Along the way, I’ve lost some friendships and gained new ones, but I’ve always kept the society’s best interests at heart.
Female MC members encounter resistance when giving directives to male staff members, while some residents express doubts about decisions solely based on gender. We consistently experience opposition in our duties. At every step, we face resistance. But I’ve seen that results change perceptions. When people witness positive outcomes, their doubts tend to diminish.
Leadership has no gender. What truly matters is delivering results and making a positive impact.
Women don’t just deserve a seat at the table—they are the driving force behind real change. Their leadership ensures effective and inclusive governance. This Women’s Day, let’s recognize, celebrate, and support women in leadership roles everywhere.
Nivedita Mahipal, PRESIDENT, KRISTAL AGATE & JASPER, KASAVANAHALLI (214 UNITS)
WE ENDURED PERSISTENT HARASSMENT
AFTER ASSUMING LEADERSHIP ROLES
After assuming leadership roles as president and secretary, my fellow woman colleague and I encountered significant opposition. We were subjected to baseless accusations, being labelled as ‘fraudulent’ and ‘illegal’. Unfounded legal cases were filed against us, and we endured persistent harassment through labour inspector’s telephone calls. Various statutory authorities received complaints aimed at pressuring us to resign.
Despite these challenges, we remained steadfast, bolstered by the backing of residents, particularly women in our community. We are now in our third year of service.
Our tenure has witnessed the implementation of various sustainable and welfare initiatives, including the installation of water aerators. Additionally, we have established a voluntary contribution system to assist housekeeping staff during their emergencies.
Kavita Ranjan, PRESIDENT, ALMOND TREE ROW HOUSES AND VILLAMENTS, YELAHANKA (50 ROW HOUSES)
CONFRONTING PREJUDICE
Women often encounter bias within Management Committees dominated by men. It is sad to see that women who excel in MCs do not always get their due. Through my involvement with Bangalore Apartments’ Federation, I communicate with women from various apartment complexes. They experience such significant discrimination that they are reluctant to put forward women as BAF representatives.
Taking up an MC membership is a serious commitment for women, not a leisure activity. They take their job very seriously. Female MC members demonstrate greater commitment compared to their male counterparts, as they carefully consider the responsibilities before taking on such roles.
Lata Sri, MC MEMBER, PRESTIGE ST JOHNS WOOD (483 UNITS). CLUSTER PRESIDENT, BAF, KORAMANGALA CLUSTER
WHAT MAKES WOMEN EXCEL IN MCs
Four of the seven MC members in our community are women.
MCs are a microcosm of the larger world in many ways. They reflect the diversity, complexities, and power dynamics we see in society at large—though on a smaller scale.
In an apartment community, you have people from different backgrounds. Just like in the real world, there are conflicts, collaborations, bureaucracy, and decision-making challenges. However, we negotiate, communicate, and work towards common goals. There are times when we struggle to strike a balance between authority and democracy, rules and flexibility, personal interest, and the collective good.
Women are good at multitasking, and they bring a balanced perspective to decision-making. Their meticulous attention to detail and strong communication abilities are invaluable when dealing with vendors, planning community activities, overseeing financial matters, or addressing residents’ issues. They also demonstrate exceptional skill in building strong relationships within the community.
Women MC members often bring a strong sense of empathy and compassion to their roles. This doesn’t mean male members lack these qualities, but women tend to approach problem-solving with a community-first mindset, considering how decisions impact residents on a personal level. Empathy alone isn’t what makes them excel—it’s the combination of emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and the ability to get things done efficiently that truly sets them apart in leadership roles within MCs.
While some MCs might encourage women to join to appear progressive, the real reason women are part of these committees is that they bring immense value to community management with their ability to handle complex issues, communicate effectively, and create inclusive environments. In our well-functioning committee at Donata Marvel apartment, women actively shape policies, drive improvements, and make a real impact on how the community is run.
As an MC member, my journey has been filled with challenges, learnings, and rewarding achievements.
By introducing structured communication channels and regular updates, we’ve ensured that residents are informed and engaged in decision-making. Another key achievement was enhancing community living through initiatives that improved safety, security.
Khusboo Thacker, SECRETARY, DONATA MARVEL, GOKULA EXTENSION (40 UNITS)
WOMEN ARE BETTER COMMUNICATORS
I have been serving as the president for the last three years. Being a homemaker allows me the time and flexibility to deeply understand the needs of both residents and staff, ensuring that their concerns are addressed effectively.
Currently, our apartment is undergoing a lift change project—one of the most challenging phases we’ve faced. However, I firmly believe that clear and timely communication is key to navigating this transition smoothly. Regular updates to residents have been instrumental in managing expectations and minimizing disruptions. As a 20-year-old apartment complex, we face new challenges every day, but with dedication, teamwork, and the right approach, we continue to overcome them and grow stronger together.
I’ve had the privilege of working with a well-balanced team, united by a shared commitment to the continuous betterment of our apartment complex. Throughout my tenure, I have always felt respected by residents, staff, and fellow team members.
Over the years, I’ve realized that compassion is at the heart of effective management. I take great pride in our collective achievements and remain deeply committed to making our community a better place for everyone.
Bhagyashree Indulkar, PRESIDENT, KNIGHTSBRIDGE APARTMENT, NEAR BROOKEFIELD MALL, KUNDALAHALLI (308 UNITS)
ACTIVE LISTENING MAKES A LOT OF DIFFERENCE
Management committees reflect, to some extent, the power dynamics, conflicts, and collaborations that exist in broader society. Disagreements and power struggles within an MC mirror societal tensions, where different interests compete for attention and resources. I do see these. The way an MC responds to challenges—whether through compromise, or resistance—shows how societies evolve over time and are ready for adaptation and change.
Women who excel as management committee members are often found to have strong emotional intelligence. They are active listeners with good communication skills and inclusive leadership styles. They tend to be empathetic, adaptable, and effective at conflict resolution, fostering collaboration and ethical decision-making. They are good at balancing strategic goals with day-to-day operations.
Women are more resilient too. While research suggests women, on average, may score higher in empathy and compassion, leadership success depends more on individual skills than gender. A diverse management team that includes both men and women typically leads to better decision-making and stronger organizational performance.
Dr Aruna Kolachina, IN CHARGE OF HOUSEKEEPING AT EMBASSY PRISTINE (425 UNITS) , AND PROFESSOR OF PSYCHOLOGY AND VISITING FACULTY AT JAIN SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES
HANDLING DIVERSE RESPONSIBILITIES
I have overseen diverse responsibilities encompassing fire safety protocols, building upkeep, and treasury, water, and plumbing systems. In my role as secretary, I successfully introduced various sustainable initiatives including waste management systems, energy-efficient LED installations, solar-powered lighting, electric vehicle charging facilities, and comprehensive water conservation methods including rainwater collection systems. The water management project provided significant learning opportunities, while the lift modernisation programme offered unique insights.
Women demonstrate heightened environmental awareness and contribute distinctive viewpoints that facilitate effective problem resolution.
The participation of women in administrative roles results in enhanced strategic solutions.
Seshavalli G, OVERSEES ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE, WATER AND PLUMBING SYSTEMS AT CASSIA BRIGADE MILLENNIUM, JP NAGAR, 7TH PHASE (195 UNITS)
