Lok Sabha Approves Women's Reservation Bill on Day 4 of Parliament, Faces Crucial Test Ahead

The ongoing special session of Parliament, commemorating 75 years of India's legislative history, has witnessed significant developments, with a primary focus on the contentious Women's Reservation Bill. This historic session not only marks a new chapter in India's legislative journey as it convenes in a new parliamentary building but also places considerable attention on the groundbreaking Women's Reservation Bill, officially named the "Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam."

The Women's Reservation Bill, having garnered near unanimity in the Lok Sabha during its passage on Wednesday, now proceeds to the Rajya Sabha for further deliberation during the remaining session. As part of the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill, it may require approval from at least half of the state assemblies.

Following the bill's successful passage in the lower house, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude, stating, "I thank MPs across party lines who voted in support of this Bill."

Despite the opposition's concerns regarding implementation and demands for extending similar benefits to other backward classes (OBC), the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam passed with an overwhelming majority in the Lok Sabha, securing 454 votes in favor compared to only two votes against the bill. Its presentation in the upper house is scheduled for today, with a positive outcome anticipated.

The extensive debate surrounding the bill included a contest between the Congress and BJP for recognition as the driving force behind this landmark legislation. Additionally, discussions revolved around its implementation and the potential inclusion of a separate quota for OBC women.

Sonia Gandhi, on the third day of the session, initiated the debate on the Women's Reservation Bill, highlighting the prolonged wait for Indian women to assume political responsibilities and the need to avoid further delays.

The bill proposes one-third (33%) reservation for women representatives in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, with the reservation set to remain in effect for 15 years from its implementation, with provisions for Parliament to extend the duration if necessary.

The 128th Constitution Amendment Bill stipulates that political reservation for women will be enacted only after the relevant census figures are published and delimitation, which involves revising seat numbers in Parliament and redrawing constituency boundaries, is completed based on those figures. This provision implies that the reservation may not be implemented until after 2029 if the bill is passed in the Rajya Sabha during this session.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed skepticism about the necessity for a new census and delimitation, suggesting that the bill could be implemented immediately and raising concerns about potential delays.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged bipartisan support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of respecting women's rights and the disappointment women have faced in previous parliamentary sessions.

In conclusion, the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in the Lok Sabha is celebrated as a historic legislative milestone for women's empowerment and greater female participation in India's political processes.

Also Read: Congress Claims Ownership of Women’s Reservation Bill, Sonia Gandhi Asserts “It as Ours”

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