In a historic moment for India’s ongoing journey towards gender equality, the Rajya Sabha, the esteemed Upper House of Parliament, achieved a remarkable feat by unanimously passing the Women’s Reservation Bill. Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated this achievement, emphasizing that the unity displayed among the members would undoubtedly boost public confidence in the political process.
Also Read: Women’s Reservation Bill: A Political Odyssey
The bill, officially known as the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill but aptly named the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, garnered unreserved support, with all 214 members present casting their votes in favor. This momentous occasion was marked by enthusiastic applause and desk-thumping, underscoring the profound significance of this legislative triumph. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar fittingly described it as a “historic achievement.”
A day earlier, the bill had received approval from the Lok Sabha, the Lower House of Parliament, further underscoring the broad consensus across party lines on this critical issue. The debate in the Rajya Sabha was a rich tapestry of expressions, featuring poetic verses and couplets, with a total of 72 speakers participating. A notable feature was the rotation of female members in moderating the discussion, underscoring the vital importance of female representation in the legislative process.
While the unanimous passage of the bill marks an extraordinary leap towards empowering women in politics, some members of the Opposition voiced concerns about the delayed implementation and the absence of separate reservations for Other Backward Class (OBC) women within the 33% reservation. In response, the government cited various initiatives aimed at supporting women to address these concerns.
As the Women’s Reservation Bill edges closer to becoming law, it symbolizes a profound stride forward in India’s pursuit of gender equality. It guarantees that women will wield a more substantial presence and voice in the nation’s political landscape, heralding a new era characterized by inclusivity and representation. This historic moment stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring women throughout the nation to actively engage in shaping the future of India.
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