SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH — Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi strongly criticised the BJP over the Women’s Reservation issue and responded sharply to remarks made by BJP MP Kangana Ranaut.
Speaking in Shimla, Negi said that it is incorrect to refer to the current development as a “Women’s Reservation Bill”, arguing that it is actually an amendment related to the already existing Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He claimed that the amendment does not provide any immediate benefit to women and accused the BJP of creating confusion around the issue.
Negi alleged that the BJP is adopting a “double standard” approach, using the issue for political gain rather than genuinely working for women’s empowerment. He questioned the intent behind the recent push, asking why the provisions were not implemented earlier when the law was passed with consensus.
Addressing Kangana Ranaut directly, Negi said that if the BJP considers itself a strong supporter of women’s welfare, it should explain what concrete steps were taken over the past three years. He questioned why the bill was not notified and implemented at the time it was originally passed.
He further criticised Ranaut’s statements, saying that such remarks do not carry much weight and are politically motivated. According to him, the issue is being presented in a misleading way to influence public opinion.
Negi also stated that there is no real opposition to women’s reservation itself, as the law has already been passed and accepted. However, he claimed that the current controversy is being created around the amendment and its timing, rather than the core idea of reservation.
He added that the recent developments have “struck a nerve” with the BJP, suggesting that this is the reason why Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the matter. Negi alleged that the public is being misled through selective narratives and political messaging.
The minister emphasised that issues related to women’s empowerment should not be politicised, and that meaningful action is needed instead of rhetoric. He called for clarity and transparency in how such policies are implemented.
The remarks come amid an ongoing political debate between the BJP and opposition parties over the Women’s Reservation issue, with both sides accusing each other of using it for electoral advantage.
Jagat Singh Negi’s statement reflects the opposition’s criticism of the BJP’s handling of the issue, while highlighting the broader political tensions surrounding women’s representation and policy implementation in the country.
