SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday strongly criticised opposition parties after the women’s reservation bill failed to pass in Parliament, describing the development as a setback to women’s long-pending demand for greater political representation.
Addressing the nation a day after the bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha, Modi said the opposition had blocked a proposal that aimed to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures, accusing them of undermining women’s aspirations.
He said the government had made all possible efforts to get the legislation cleared and expressed regret over its failure, adding that he “seeks forgiveness” from women across the country. He also said the episode reflected how political resistance had slowed women’s progress.
The Prime Minister accused parties including the Congress, DMK, TMC and Samajwadi Party of prioritising political interests over national priorities and women’s empowerment, alleging that a historic opportunity to strengthen women’s participation in governance had been lost.
Referring to the bill, also known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, Modi said it was designed to enhance women’s representation without affecting any other section and to ensure balanced representation across regions.
He further criticised what he called “self-serving politics,” saying the opposition’s stand went against the spirit of the Constitution and involved attempts to create divisions on regional lines.
Reiterating the government’s broader vision, Modi said the proposal was a key step towards inclusive development and greater participation of women in democracy. He added that efforts to empower women and increase their role in governance would continue despite the setback.
