The Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has expressed support for the upcoming three-day special Parliament session scheduled by the Centre from April 16 to 18. The session aims to introduce and pass a Constitutional Amendment Bill for the implementation of the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ (Women’s Reservation Act) in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Minister Narendra Shivaji Patel conveyed the state government’s appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this significant step towards women’s empowerment during a media address after the Cabinet meeting.
The Cabinet acknowledged the importance of the special session in amending the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, to ensure 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state Legislative Assemblies from the 2029 general elections. The Madhya Pradesh government declared April 10 to April 25 as the Nari Shakti Vandan Fortnight to celebrate this milestone and raise awareness about women’s political empowerment.
In line with the declaration, various events such as ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Conferences’ and ‘Nari Shakti Padayatras’ are being organized throughout the state. Moreover, state-level programs focusing on Nari Shakti Vandan will take place in colleges to express gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and emphasize the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment.
The original Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, enacted in 2023, mandated 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and the Delhi Assembly, including reserved seats for SCs and STs. However, its implementation was contingent on the completion of the subsequent Census and delimitation exercise. The proposed amendments seek to expedite the process, ensuring women can avail of the quota from the 2029 polls.
