Centre plans Women's Reservation, delimitation Bills in Monsoon Session
New Delhi: The Centre is preparing to introduce Constitution Amendment Bills related to women's reservation and delimitation during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament. With these landmark reforms requiring a two-thirds majority in both Houses, the government has intensified outreach to several opposition and non-NDA parties, with the DMK emerging as a key player in the political equation.
Lok Sabha Numbers Pose Biggest Hurdle
While the government is believed to be close to securing the required support in the Rajya Sabha, the real challenge lies in the Lok Sabha, where a Constitution Amendment Bill requires the backing of at least 360 MPs.
According to political estimates, recent developments, including shifts in support from some regional parties, have strengthened the government's position to around 324 MPs. However, it still needs additional numbers to comfortably cross the constitutional threshold.
DMK Emerges as a Key Ally
With 22 MPs in the Lok Sabha, the DMK has become crucial to the government's strategy. Sources indicate that discussions between the Centre and the Tamil Nadu-based party are underway on multiple issues, including delimitation and the three-language policy.
The government is reportedly open to considering proposals related to increasing parliamentary representation for states during the delimitation exercise, a key concern raised by southern states. Officials are hopeful that a broader understanding on these issues could help secure the DMK's support.
Focus on Regional Parties
If the DMK extends support, the government's numbers could rise to nearly 346 MPs. The next phase of outreach is expected to target regional parties such as the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), YSR Congress Party and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha.
The Centre is also believed to be exploring the possibility of securing direct or indirect support from the Samajwadi Party. Political observers say that if the DMK backs the legislation, several other regional parties may also reconsider their positions.
Push for Simultaneous Reforms
The government is keen to move forward with both women's reservation and the delimitation process together, making the upcoming Monsoon Session one of the most politically significant in recent years.
As Parliament approaches, negotiations between the government and opposition parties are expected to intensify, potentially reshaping political alliances and determining the fate of two of the most consequential constitutional reforms on the government's agenda.
