PM Modi Vows to Continue Push for Women’s Reservation After Bill Setback

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to implementing the Women’s Reservation Bill, despite its recent failure to pass in the Lok Sabha. Addressing the nation, Modi described the initiative as a crucial step toward empowering women and termed it a “great yajna” for the 21st century.

The proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which aimed to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816 to facilitate 33% reservation for women, fell short of the required two-thirds majority. While 298 MPs supported the bill, 230 opposed it—well below the 352 votes needed for passage.

Expressing disappointment, Modi apologised to the women of the country, stating that their long-pending rights had been delayed once again. However, he struck a determined tone, assuring that the government would “remove all obstacles” and continue efforts to pass the legislation ahead of the 2029 general elections.

The Prime Minister also launched sharp attacks on opposition parties, including those led by Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of misleading the public and deliberately blocking women’s empowerment. He alleged that “dynastic parties” feared greater participation of women in politics.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders defended their stance, arguing that they support women’s reservation but oppose linking it with delimitation. Critics also questioned the government’s approach, calling it politically motivated.

The issue has triggered intense political debate, with both the Bharatiya Janata Party and Indian National Congress trading accusations over responsibility for the bill’s failure.

Despite the setback, the government has signaled that the push for women’s reservation remains far from over.