The failure of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill to pass in the Lok Sabha has triggered a sharp political exchange between the ruling party and the opposition, intensifying the debate over women’s reservation in Parliament and state assemblies.
Constitution Amendment Bill fails in Lok Sabha
The bill, aimed at advancing women’s reservation in legislative bodies, could not secure the required support in the Lower House, leading to a heated political atmosphere and immediate reactions from both sides of the aisle.
Priyanka Gandhi questions government approach
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra responded to the development, stating that the opposition has consistently supported the idea of women’s reservation but raised concerns about the manner in which the bill was introduced.
She said, “We have celebrated protecting the Constitution of India. We have defeated their conspiracy of bringing delimitation. The opposition is saying they should bring back the old Women’s Reservation Bill. As far as the women’s reservation bill is concerned, we are always with them but the way they have brought it, we will not support it…”
Her remarks highlight the opposition’s stance that while they support women’s reservation, procedural and structural concerns remain regarding the current version of the bill.
Kiren Rijiju strongly criticises opposition
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju strongly reacted to the bill’s failure, accusing the opposition of blocking a historic opportunity to enhance women’s representation in legislative bodies.
He said, “Congress party and the opposition will have to bear with the anger of the women of the country. The black spot put on them will never be washed off. This was a historic bill to give a seat to women in Parliament and the Assembly. What could be the reason to oppose this? This was a black day for the country…”
Q1. What happened to the Women’s Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha?
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha.
Q2. What did Priyanka Gandhi say?
She said the opposition supports women’s reservation but will not back the bill in its current form.
Q3. What was Kiren Rijiju’s reaction?
He strongly criticised the opposition and called it a “black day” for the country.
Q4. Why is the bill important?
It aims to increase women’s representation in Parliament and state assemblies.
