New Delhi | April 17, 2026: The Lok Sabha on Friday resumed discussion on three key legislations — the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, the Delimitation Bill, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill — aimed at enabling 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
Rahul Gandhi attacks Bills, flags impact on representation
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi argued that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is “not about women’s empowerment” but an attempt to alter India’s electoral map.
He alleged the move could:
- Reduce representation of Dalits and OBCs
- Sideline the caste census debate
- Overlook structural inequalities faced by marginalized groups
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla intervened during his speech, asking him to stay focused on the legislation.
Government hits back, calls remarks ‘unparliamentary’
Responding sharply:
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh demanded an apology for remarks against PM Narendra Modi
- Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju termed the comments “unparliamentary”
Govt: Historic step for women’s empowerment
Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy said the legislation marks a “historic step” and should be seen as a rightful recognition of women’s contribution, not a favour.
Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi added that the Bills reflect inclusive governance and women-led development, accusing the Opposition of undermining the aspirations of millions of women.
BJP MP Hema Malini called the Bill a “tribute to women’s struggle and strength”, while Sandhya Ray described it as a symbol of dignity and participation.
Opposition raises concerns over delimitation link
Opposition parties broadly supported women’s reservation but opposed linking it with delimitation:
- DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi called the move “against federal structure”
- Congress leader Shashi Tharoor warned that tying implementation to delimitation “holds women’s aspirations hostage”
- TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee termed the special session “unfair during elections”
- SAD’s Harsimrat Kaur Badal demanded immediate implementation without delimitation
Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav stressed the need to prioritise education for girls alongside political representation.
