Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, called on political parties to take steps to increase women’s representation in elected bodies.
Modi urged all political parties to ensure 33% representation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, saying women have already demonstrated their leadership abilities in local governance.
PM Modi Praises Women Leaders in Local Bodies
The Prime Minister pointed to the growing participation of women in Panchayats, Municipalities and Municipal Corporations.
He said women representatives are playing an important role in addressing local problems and providing effective leadership.
“My dear fellow citizens, today in Panchayats, Municipalities, and Municipal Corporations, our women public representatives are guiding the nation in very large numbers, solving local challenges, and providing exceptionally capable and empowering leadership,” Modi said.
He said the government had taken this participation into account while bringing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament.
PM Modi Says Women’s Representation Faced Political Hurdles
Modi also referred to the long political debate over increasing women’s representation, saying the issue had remained caught in political disputes for around four decades.
“But for one reason or another, in the political arena over the last 40 years, this dream had persistently fallen victim to political games and political battlegrounds,” he said.
Appeal to Political Parties From Red Fort
Calling for political parties to act quickly, Modi appealed to them to recognise the contribution and capabilities of women in public life.
“Today, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, standing under the shadow of the Tricolor, I earnestly appeal to and urge all political parties of our nation: Come forward and celebrate the strength and capability of our women,” Modi said.
He specifically called for 33% representation for women in State Legislative Assemblies and the Lok Sabha, saying greater participation would allow women to play a bigger role in shaping the country’s policies.
“Step forward in honor of our women, and as swiftly as possible, ensure our mothers and sisters receive 33% representation in the State Legislative Assemblies and the Lok Sabha so that they can actively contribute to shaping India’s policies,” he said.
