A fresh political debate has sparked regarding the extension of the Women’s Reservation Bill, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the extension of the Budget Session of Parliament to facilitate its implementation. Enacted in 2023, the law mandates 33% reservation for women in legislatures, currently tied to delimitation and expected to be enforced by 2029.
Leaders from Shiv Sena and Shiv Sena(UBT) have welcomed the move, urging the government to expedite the implementation, while opposition parties like Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal have raised concerns over the delay and sought clarity on timelines. Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC commended the government’s commitment towards the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, emphasizing the necessity of genuine representation for women in politics.
Highlighting the importance of increased participation, Shaina NC stressed that women voters constitute nearly 50% of the electorate and their representation in Parliament and state Assemblies should significantly rise. RLD chief Upendra Kushwaha mentioned the long-standing cross-party support for women’s reservation, emphasizing the need for its effective implementation.
BJD Rajya Sabha MP Sulata Deo echoed similar sentiments, calling women’s reservation a persistent demand supported by women MPs. However, opposition leaders have expressed concerns over the delay and the conditions linked to the implementation. Congress spokesperson Udit Raj raised procedural issues, stating that delimitation cannot proceed without a Census, urging the government to clarify its plans.
