Women’s Reservation Bill to Strengthen Democracy, Says PM Modi
Historic Progress for Women’s Representation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Monday that India is “on the brink of making history” as the longstanding women’s reservation bill in legislatures moves towards implementation. He stated that this reform is poised to deepen democracy and bolster women-led development in the country.
Speaking at the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ in Delhi, PM Modi expressed that the proposed legislation represents a collective aspiration that has resonated throughout India. He emphasized that Parliament is nearing a decisive action that will alter political representation significantly.
Women’s Voices and Contributions
PM Modi highlighted the increasing engagement of women across the nation on this issue in recent days. He remarked that enabling women to access the Legislative Assembly and Lok Sabha will empower them and allow their aspirations to take flight. The Prime Minister acknowledged the substantial contributions of Indian women throughout the history of the country, from the struggle for independence to the establishment of the Constitution.
He noted that women, who have held positions ranging from President to Prime Minister, have each contributed uniquely to India’s legacy. Presently, he mentioned, over 1.4 million women are active in local government bodies, significantly contributing to political processes. In approximately 21 states, women’s participation in Panchayati Raj institutions has reached nearly 50 percent.
International Recognition and Commitment to Deadlines
The Prime Minister asserted that India’s remarkable progress in women’s political participation often leaves foreign dignitaries astonished. He expressed pride in how this widespread involvement impresses global leaders and experts.
PM Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the constitutional amendment within a stipulated timeframe. He noted a collective demand for the Women’s Empowerment Act to be enacted by 2029. A comprehensive discussion regarding the bill is expected to begin in Parliament on April 16.
Support from Political Leaders
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta welcomed the government’s initiative to operationalize the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, stating that the proposed 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies would automatically advance women’s empowerment. She characterized this initiative as a move toward women-led development and noted welfare measures introduced by the current government.
Vijaya Rahatkar, chair of the National Commission for Women, commended the legislation as a fulfillment of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s vision for increased political representation for women. She described it as a structural change in the decision-making landscape.
Upcoming Legislative Actions
The government plans to introduce both the constitutional amendment and a delimitation bill during the forthcoming special parliamentary session scheduled to begin on April 16. PM Modi described this legislative effort as transformative, dedicating the decision to women’s power and the veneration of their contributions to society.
He urged that the time has come to end the prolonged waiting period for greater representation, emphasizing that the upcoming parliamentary sessions will be pivotal in this historical initiative for India. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing hope for mutual cooperation and participation from all political parties in this significant endeavor.
