In a momentous stride towards gender equality, the Rajya Sabha, following an exhaustive 11-hour debate, resoundingly endorsed the Women’s Reservation Bill. This pivotal legislation had previously secured approval in the Lok Sabha a day earlier. Consequently, the bill mandates a 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, marking a monumental shift in Indian parliamentary representation. However, the Opposition has raised concerns regarding its implementation, contingent on the forthcoming census and delimitation exercises. Notably, only two MPs from the AIMIM voiced opposition in the Lok Sabha, while the Rajya Sabha witnessed unanimous support for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam bill.
This historic milestone is additionally significant as it marks the inaugural bill passed within the newly inaugurated Parliament building. Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Jagdeep Dhankhar, extended his felicitations to the members, acknowledging this momentous achievement. “A historic achievement, congratulations. It is also a coincidence that today is PM Modi’s birthday according to the Hindu calendar,” stated Dhankhar in the wake of the bill’s passage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other ministers and parliamentarians, convened for a special session of the Parliament in New Delhi. Addressing the Rajya Sabha prior to the vote, PM Modi affirmed that this legislation would instill newfound confidence among the nation’s populace.
PM Modi, in the aftermath of the bill’s successful passage through the Rajya Sabha, hailed it as a ‘defining moment’ in India’s historical journey. In a tweet, he expressed, “A defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey! Congratulations to 140 crore Indians. I thank all the Rajya Sabha MPs who voted for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Such unanimous support is indeed gladdening.”
He further expounded, “With the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament, we usher in an era of stronger representation and empowerment for the women of India. This is not merely legislation; it is a tribute to the countless women who have enriched our nation. India has been enriched by their resilience and contributions. As we celebrate today, we are reminded of the strength, courage, and indomitable spirit of all the women of our nation. This historic step is a commitment to ensuring their voices are heard even more effectively.”
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman lauded the bill as long overdue. In response to queries concerning the rationale behind the special parliamentary session, Sitharaman remarked, “We have entered a new era with a new, sophisticated Parliament building—a new India. We intend for this Parliament to address one of the most exemplary bills within its purview.” She also addressed the issue of reservations in the Rajya Sabha, stating, “While some members have called for reservations in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha), given the indirect election process and voting preferences, such reservations would pose significant challenges.”
During the proceedings, Mallikarjun Kharge voiced concerns over the delay in implementing the bill, drawing a parallel to the abrupt demonetization move by PM Modi. Kharge queried why the implementation couldn’t occur immediately, to which Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal responded assertively, stating, “Modi hai toh mumkin hai…do not doubt.”
Next in line for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam bill is presidential approval. Once obtained, the bill will formally enshrine 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, heralding a new era of gender inclusivity in Indian politics.
