Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it is necessary to hold the 2029 Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with reservations for women and asked all political parties to come together with one voice to pass amendments to the Women’s Reservation Act.
In a letter to the leaders of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, ahead of the three-day special session of Parliament, Modi also said that any society progresses only when women have the opportunity to come forward, take decisions and, most importantly, lead.
He said that for India to achieve its vision of becoming a developed country, it is necessary for women to play a bigger and more active role in this journey.
“After extensive deliberations, we have come to the conclusion that now is the time to implement Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhinyam in its true spirit across the country.
“It is necessary to hold the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and Assembly elections with reservations for women,” the Prime Minister said in his letter dated April 11.
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Modi said the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act in 2029 will inject new energy into India’s democratic institutions and boost public confidence and will also ensure greater participation and representation in governance.
“I am writing this letter so that we can all come together with one voice to pass this amendment,” he said.
The Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhinyam Act is known as the Women’s Reservation Act.
The budget session of Parliament was extended, and a special three-day session of the House was held from April 16 to 18.
All about Women’s Reservation Act
The Women’s Reservation Act will ensure that the number of Lok Sabha seats increases to 816, of which 273 seats are reserved for women.
The provision to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in the House of Representatives and state assemblies has been introduced by amendment to the Constitution in 2023.
However, the women’s quota will come into effect only after the 2027 census-based demarcation process is completed.
This means that the reservation will not become enforceable before 2034 if the current law remains as is.
To implement it from 2029 Lok Sabha elections, changes in Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam are needed; Hence, the government holds a special session to approve amendments to the law.
The Prime Minister said he is writing the letter so that all parties come together with one voice to pass this amendment during the “historic debate” scheduled to take place in Parliament from April 16.
“This special session is an opportunity to further strengthen our democracy. It is also a moment to reiterate our collective commitment to moving forward together, taking everyone together,” he said, adding: “I write to you in this spirit and with this purpose.”
Modi said that today everyone is witnessing an increasing participation of women in various areas of public life.
“From space to sports, from the armed forces to startups, India’s girls are making an impact in every field. Through their hard work and determination, they are proving their mettle,” he said.
Modi said the issue of reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures has been discussed for decades and in 2023, MPs from across party lines came together to support Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhiniyam in Parliament.
“It was an unforgettable moment that reflects our unity. The whole world witnessed how a big decision was taken collectively to fulfill the commitment to the women of the country,” he said.
The Prime Minister said that women represent nearly half of the country’s population and this is a strong step towards enhancing their participation in the political field.
“I consider that day to be an important and inspiring milestone in India’s parliamentary journey. Many Members of Parliament contributed to the discussion of Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhiniyam,” he said.
Modi said that during those deliberations, the timing of its implementation was also addressed, and there was broad consensus that the provisions of this landmark law should come into effect as soon as possible.
“Leaders of many parties have this opinion. In the recent past, we have held consultations with experts on this topic. We sought suggestions and guidance from those who have good experience in constitutional matters. We also engaged in dialogue with political parties,” he added.
The Prime Minister said that it would be great if many members of Parliament expressed their views on this topic in Parliament and this is a moment above any party or individual.
“It is a moment to show responsibility towards women and our future generations. Since all political parties have expressed their desire to increase women’s representation in politics for a long time, this is the right time to turn this ambition into reality,” he said.
This will be a great achievement for the Nari Shakti nation and for 140 crore Indians, Modi said.
He said, “I have full confidence that we will all come together and achieve this historic achievement in Parliament.”
The Prime Minister said that MPs who contribute to implementing the women’s quota will always be proud to be part of this historic effort.
“Therefore, we must not miss this opportunity. Your support for the Nari Shakti Vandhan Adhinyam amendment will be fulfillment of an important responsibility towards women in our country.
“Let us continue to strengthen our great democratic traditions and take decisive steps towards a historic transformation,” he said.
