The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) criticized the failure of a constitutional amendment bill in the Lok Sabha, which was presented as a women’s reservation initiative. The party accused the government of using deceptive tactics to secure votes through defection or absence but falling short in the end.
In response to the bill’s defeat, Prime Minister Modi delivered a national address during active Assembly elections in five states, drawing criticism for violating the Model Code of Conduct. The editorial highlighted the government’s refusal to implement a 33% quota within the existing 543-seat framework, labeling it as hypocrisy.
The proposed bill aimed to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850, sparking controversy as it was seen as a move to consolidate power in northern Hindi-belt states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. Southern India strongly opposed the proposal, with Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister warning of protests reminiscent of past agitations.
Statistical analysis revealed a significant disparity in seat distribution under the proposed increase, with Tamil Nadu’s seats set to rise from 39 to 59, while Uttar Pradesh’s would increase from 80 to 120. This led to accusations of the Prime Minister fueling a North-South divide, as per the editorial’s claims.
The editorial also criticized the BJP and RSS for perpetuating a culture of male dominance, suggesting that women are merely valued for their votes. Contrasting the current government’s actions with historical precedents, it highlighted the neglect of women’s issues and the disparity between political rhetoric and ground realities.
Drawing parallels to past political events, the editorial suggested that Prime Minister Modi should resign following the bill’s defeat, allowing a capable woman to lead. It emphasized the significance of the bill’s failure as a victory for Indian democracy, despite protests initiated by the BJP over the issue.
