Amit Shah Leads Government’s Counterattack as Women’s Quota Bill Faces Opposition Heat

New Delhi: The three-day special session of Parliament has turned into a crucial political contest as the government pushes for the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill alongside the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, and the Delimitation Bill. While the proposed legislation is being projected as a major reform for women’s representation, it has also triggered a sharp confrontation over delimitation and the broader political balance it may create.

The session, being held from April 16 to 18, is currently underway in the Lok Sabha. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal formally begins the debate after introducing the legislative package in the House.

With the NDA holding 292 seats and the Opposition at 233, the need for a two-thirds majority has placed the numbers equation at the centre of the proceedings, making support from multiple parties politically significant.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the move as a “historic step” for women’s empowerment. However, Opposition parties, while backing reservation for women, have united in resisting the delimitation provisions, alleging that they are politically motivated.

The disagreement is no longer limited to Parliament. Demonstrations have also taken place outside the House, led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, while INDIA bloc members continue protests inside Parliament.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the Lok Sabha at around 3:30 pm today during the discussion on the Women’s Reservation Constitutional Amendment Bill, as the government seeks wider backing for its approval.

As debate intensifies, the outcome of this session is expected to shape not only women’s political participation but also the future contours of electoral representation in the country.