In a fervent exchange of words within the hallowed halls of the new Parliament, a significant debate unfolded between Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Union minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The subject of contention: the proposed women’s reservation bill, which recently received the cabinet’s approval.
Mallikarjun Kharge, known for his articulate speeches, expressed concerns about the bill, alleging that it could potentially lead political parties to select uneducated and inexperienced women who might not be adequately equipped for the responsibilities entrusted to them. Sitharaman, a prominent voice in the BJP, offered a strong counterargument, criticizing Kharge’s sweeping statements.
Kharge, in his passionate address, highlighted the lower literacy rates among women from Scheduled Castes and contended that political parties often opt for women from these communities due to their perceived vulnerability. He emphasized that educated and capable women are overlooked.
Sitharaman responded assertively, defending her position and asserting that Kharge’s generalized assertions were unacceptable. She cited examples of empowered women within the BJP, including President Droupadi Murmu, to demonstrate that educated and effective women have been an integral part of their party.
Despite their spirited exchange, Sitharaman objected to Kharge’s attempts to draw distinctions between women based on their backgrounds, emphasizing that such generalizations are unwarranted.
This heated verbal altercation followed an earlier clash between the two leaders over the Goods and Services Tax (GST), where Kharge alleged that states were not receiving their rightful share of revenue, and Sitharaman vehemently disagreed, asserting that no state was owed any dues.
These contentious discussions have led to both leaders being requested to submit written statements by Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.
The women’s reservation bill, which offers a 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, has garnered attention and debate from various quarters. It is set to come into effect after a delimitation exercise, continuing for 15 years, with reserved seats being rotated following each delimitation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the bill during his address in the new Parliament, asserting its significance and historic nature. He proudly noted that India had made history with this initiative.
This spirited parliamentary exchange occurred on a historic day as the Indian Parliament transitioned to its new building in Delhi’s Central Vista, marking the end of an era. The old British-era building, where the Constitution was drafted, has been christened “Samvidhan Sadan” to honor its legacy.
