After a long 11-hour of debate, the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of Parliament, unanimously approved the Women’s Reservation Bill a historic milestone by government, marking a turning point in Indian politics. Just one day after the lower house, the Lok Sabha, supported the measure of its approval, this momentous development occurred. A significant step towards gender equality in Indian politics will be made through the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ legislation, which would impose a 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
A Landmark Achievement
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s passing is notable for both its background and its content. Here is a closer look at this significant accomplishment:
- Unanimous Consent: The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam bill was passed with unanimous support in the Rajya Sabha, demonstrating the broad acceptance of the necessity of gender equality in Indian politics.
- Historical Venue: This legislation’s historical significance is increased by the fact that it was the first to be passed in the newly opened Parliament building.
- Prime Minister’s Praise: Prime Minister’s Commendation The bill’s approval was hailed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey.” He overwhelmed every Rajya Sabha member for their support of this groundbreaking legislation.
Understanding the Bill
It’s critical to figure out the Women’s Reservation Bill’s fundamental elements in order to fully appreciate its implications:
- Range of the reservation: The law aims to increase the representation of women in Indian politics by reserving one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Delhi assembly for them.
- Exclusions: The measure, which largely focuses on the lower houses, is notable for not including the Rajya Sabha or state Legislative Councils.
A Long-Awaited Victory
The victory of this legislation represents the end of a lengthy struggle for women’s political empowerment in India:
- Years of Development: It was all the more remarkable that the Women’s Reservation Bill was successfully passed during this special parliamentary session because it had been on hold for more than 25 years.
- Broad Support: A stunning 454 Lok Sabha members voted in favour of the bill, easily passing it by the two-thirds majority required by the constitution. During the vote, the AIMIM party’s two members were the only ones to oppose the measure.
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Debate Highlights
The bill’s parliamentary discussion showed a range of opinions and factors:
- Demand for OBC Quota: During the discussion, there were proposals for the bill to include a distinct quota for women from other backward classes (OBCs). Sonia Gandhi, the leader of the Congress, and other opposition figures pushed for this extra clause.
- Governmental Guarantee: Home Minister Amit Shah responded by assuring the House that any flaws or issues would be fixed in the future and reiterating the government’s dedication to women’s reservation.
Implementation and Beyond
What happens next now that the bill has been approved by both houses of Parliament?
- Presidential approval: Getting the President of India’s approval is the last stage before the 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies becomes a legal requirement.
- A Better Future: According to Prime Minister Modi, this legislation not only establishes a legal framework but also pays homage to the many women who have aided in the development of the country. It heralds in a time when Indian women would be better represented and empowered.
Conclusion
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s a majority of support marks a crucial turning point in India’s democratic development. This act will ensure that there are more women involved in making decisions, which will transform the political landscape of the nation. With this historic move, India is poised for a future that is brighter and more inclusive, with gender equality at its centre.
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