NEW DELHI: Amidst intense heated debates and widespread protests, the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal moved the bill after obtaining permission through a floor vote. The Opposition staged a fierce protest, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the bill, alleging that it undermines the basic structure of the Constitution. The Central Government, however, maintained that all concerns could be addressed during the detailed discussion.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the bill for failing to provide sub-quotas for Muslim and other backward communities. The Center responded by stating that the Constitution does not permit reservations based on religion. This led to a sharp exchange of words between Home Minister Amit Shah and Akhilesh Yadav. Adding to the visual protest, DMK members arrived in the House dressed in black. Priyanka Gandhi is expected to lead the charge for the Opposition during the debate.
The Constitutional Amendment Bill proposes to implement women’s reservation by increasing the total number of seats in legislative bodies. The Opposition’s primary contention lies in the plan to link the reservation with a fresh delimitation exercise and an increase in the number of constituencies. They demand the immediate implementation of the quota within the existing seat structure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address the House during the 18-hour long discussion scheduled for the bill.
With input from News Agencies.
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