In an unprecedented milestone, the Rajya Sabha made history by unanimously passing the Women's Reservation Bill following an intense 11-hour debate. Just a day earlier, the bill had already secured passage in the Lok Sabha. This landmark legislation ensures a 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, poised to become law after the forthcoming census and delimitation processes – a point that had been scrutinized and debated by the Opposition.
In a remarkable display of unity, only two MPs from the AIMIM opposed the bill in the Lok Sabha, and there were no abstentions during the voting in the Rajya Sabha, signaling resounding support for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill.
Significantly, this achievement unfolded within the hallowed halls of the newly constructed Parliament building, marking a historic moment in itself. After the Upper House gave its nod, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar extended his congratulations to the members and lauded the bill as a historic achievement. "Historic achievement, congratulations. It is also a coincidence that today is PM Modi's birthday by the Hindu calendar," remarked Dhankhar in a moment of celebration after the bill's passage.
Before the crucial vote, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing that this bill would instill newfound confidence among the citizens of India. His congratulatory message after the bill hurdled the Rajya Sabha echoed the sentiment, as he described it as a 'defining moment' in India's history. PM Modi tweeted, "A defining moment in our nation's democratic journey! Congratulations to 140 crore Indians. I thank all the Rajya Sabha MPs who voted for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Such unanimous support is indeed gladdening."
He went on to reflect on the bill's significance, highlighting its role in strengthening women's representation and empowerment in India. "With the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament, we usher in an era of stronger representation and empowerment for the women of India," said PM Modi. "This is not merely legislation; it is a tribute to the countless women who have made our nation. India has been enriched by their resilience and contributions. As we celebrate today, we are reminded of the strength, courage, and indomitable spirit of all the women of our nation. This historic step is a commitment to ensuring their voices are heard even more effectively," he added.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also weighed in on the bill, characterizing it as long overdue. Addressing questions about the special parliamentary session, Sitharaman said, "We have come into a new complex, new building for Parliament, new India. We would like this Parliament to deal with one of the best bills that it can deal with." Responding to concerns about reservation in the Rajya Sabha, she pointed out the challenges posed by the indirect election process and the complexities surrounding voting preferences, making it unfeasible at this juncture.
During the proceedings, Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the delay in implementing the bill, drawing a comparison to the sudden demonetization decision made by PM Modi. In response, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal confidently asserted, "Modi hai toh mumkin hai...do not doubt."
What Lies Ahead for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill? Having secured approval in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, the bill now proceeds to the President for consent. Once ratified, the 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies will be officially enshrined in Indian law.
