Ahead of a special Parliament session starting April 16 to discuss amendments for implementing one-third women's reservation in Lok Sabha from 2029 elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to floor leaders of all parties seeking their support. The opposition has raised concerns over lack of details on delimitation and the timing. The government described it as fulfilling responsibility towards women.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to floor leaders of all parties ahead of Parliament's special session starting April 16, seeking cooperation on amendments to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He stated, "This special sitting is an opportunity to further strengthen our democracy. It is also a moment to reiterate our collective commitment to moving forward together." The Act, passed in September 2023, would take effect only after delimitation based on the 2027 Census, not before 2034. Amendments are needed for 2029 elections.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge responded that 30 months have passed since the Act's passage without taking the opposition into confidence. He flagged the lack of details on delimitation and demanded an all-party meeting after elections end on April 29. Kharge said, "Without details of the delimitation and other aspects, it would be impossible to have any useful discussion."
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju replied to Kharge, emphasising that promises to women cannot be postponed for politics. On X, he wrote, "For decades, women’s reservation remained a promise. This Government turned it into reality. Now, the necessary amendments linked to delimitation are crucial to ensure that our #NariShakti gets rightful representation before 2029."
CPI(M) MP John Brittas said the proposal to increase Lok Sabha seats by 50% undermines federal balance, with northern states gaining 200 more seats against 65 for southern states. CPI's P Sandosh Kumar called the planned delimitation dangerous for southern states. An INDIA bloc meeting is scheduled for April 15. The BJP needs a two-thirds majority for the constitutional amendment.
