SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH — Leader of Opposition in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has criticised the Congress party for opposing the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, stating that it has delayed the implementation of women’s reservation despite long-standing demands.
Speaking in Shimla, Thakur said that almost all political parties in the country have, at different times, expressed support for providing reservation to women, recognising the importance of greater representation in legislative bodies. However, he claimed that while many parties talked about it, real efforts to implement it were made only under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Thakur emphasised that the central government had taken a significant step by bringing forward the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which was aimed at strengthening the implementation of women’s reservation. According to him, the intention behind the bill was to ensure that women could receive their rightful representation in Parliament and state assemblies without further delay.
He noted that a special session of the Lok Sabha was convened with the purpose of passing this important legislation, reflecting the seriousness of the government’s commitment to the issue. However, he expressed disappointment that the bill could not be passed due to opposition from Congress and other parties.
Calling the development “unfortunate,” Thakur said that such opposition sends a negative message, especially when the issue concerns women’s rights and empowerment. He argued that this was a moment when all political parties should have come together in support of a measure that has broad social significance.
Thakur further stated that women in India have been waiting for greater political representation for many years, and any delay in implementing reservation policies only prolongs this wait. He said that the government’s efforts were aimed at speeding up the process and ensuring that women are given opportunities to participate more actively in decision-making.
He also accused the Congress party of taking contradictory positions on the issue, saying that while the party publicly claims to support women’s reservation, its actions in Parliament do not reflect that commitment. According to him, opposing such a bill raises questions about the party’s intentions.
The former Chief Minister highlighted that women play a crucial role in society, contributing to development, governance, and social progress. He said that increasing their representation in legislative bodies would lead to more inclusive and balanced policymaking.
Thakur added that the initiative led by the central government reflects a broader vision of empowering women, not just socially and economically, but also politically. He said that giving women a stronger voice in governance is essential for the country’s long-term development.
He also appealed to opposition parties to rise above political differences when it comes to issues of national importance, especially those related to social justice and equality. According to him, matters such as women’s reservation should not be used for political confrontation.
Observers note that the debate over the Women’s Reservation Bill has once again brought attention to the challenges of achieving consensus on major reforms. While there is widespread agreement on the need for women’s representation, differences remain on how and when such policies should be implemented.
Thakur concluded by reiterating his support for the bill and expressing hope that efforts will continue to ensure that women receive their rightful place in the country’s political system. He said that the government remains committed to this goal despite the recent setback.
The remarks reflect ongoing political tensions over women’s reservation, with the BJP accusing the Congress of blocking progress, while the broader debate continues on ensuring timely and effective implementation of such reforms.
