Former President Pratibha Patil has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing her appreciation for the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and describing it as a transformative step in strengthening India's democratic framework.
Pratibha Patil, India's first woman President (2007-2012), welcomed the move ahead of the April 16 Parliament session, where lawmakers will discuss amendments and a delimitation bill to enable one-third reservation for women.
Her remarks come amid political debate, with Sonia Gandhi criticising the timing of the Bill and calling it an underhand tactic.
In her letter, Patil described the measure as a landmark reform to boost women's participation and stressed that true empowerment requires equal opportunities in national decision-making.
She described the amendment as more than a legal provision, calling it a strong affirmation of India's commitment to gender equality, inclusive governance, and progressive development.
Highlighting the broader impact, Patil noted that greater representation of women in Parliament and State Legislatures would enrich debates with diverse perspectives, foster balanced policymaking, and inspire future generations to take part in public life.
She also acknowledged the significant contributions of women across sectors, often overcoming social and structural barriers, and said the legislation formally recognises their potential while creating pathways for leadership at the highest levels.
Calling it a decisive step, Pratibha Patil said the reform would promote equality, inspire women-especially from marginalised communities-and strengthen India's inclusive and progressive future.