‘Those who oppose women quota bill will…’: PM Modi’s warning to opposition amid Lok Sabha bid
PM Modi pushed for early implementation of the women’s reservation bill in Lok Sabha, stressing that greater participation of women in policymaking is essential for building a more inclusive and developed India.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday strongly backed the early implementation of the women’s reservation bill in the Lok Sabha, cautioning that those opposing the move could face long-term political consequences.
Addressing the House during the special Parliament session, the Prime Minister emphasised the need to accelerate the rollout of the legislation aimed at increasing women’s representation in legislatures.
The women’s reservation bill, first introduced in 2023, proposes reserving 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women. Although it received unanimous support earlier, its implementation was linked to the completion of the census and delimitation process.
The Centre is now exploring the possibility of implementing the provisions based on existing data, including the 2011 Census, to fast-track the process.
‘Key to Viksit Bharat’ Vision
Modi highlighted that women’s participation in policymaking is essential for India’s development. He said a developed nation is not defined only by infrastructure but also by inclusive governance.
Referring to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, the Prime Minister noted that the amendment also proposes increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha to 815 seats, with 273 seats reserved for women.
Warning to Opposition Parties
During his address, Modi cautioned opposition parties against resisting the bill. He said past instances have shown that those who opposed women’s participation in governance faced political backlash.
He added that women voters are now more politically aware, especially after increased participation at the grassroots level, including in local body elections.
Growing Political Awareness Among Women
The Prime Minister underlined that women’s political awareness has expanded significantly over the past few decades. He noted that leaders emerging from panchayat-level governance have contributed to a broader understanding of political rights among women.
He urged members of the House to support the legislation without politicising the issue.
Appeal for Consensus Amid Protests
As Modi continued his speech, sections of the opposition raised slogans in the House. Despite the disruptions, he appealed for unity, asking lawmakers to trust women voters and support their greater representation.
The debate over the bill is expected to remain a key focus of the ongoing Parliament session, with discussions also linked to delimitation and census-related reforms.
