On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly advocated the early implementation of reservations for women in legislative bodies.
He described it as a crucial reform to make India's democracy more inclusive and representative.
Writing in an Op-Ed, PM Modi shared his views on X. He urged political parties to unite in support of the long-pending measure.
Stressing the urgency of the proposal, PM Modi posted, "Reservation for women in legislative bodies is the need of the hour! This will make our democracy even more vibrant and participative. Any delay in bringing this reservation will be deeply unfortunate. Expressed my thoughts on the issue in this Op-Ed."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi positioned the reform as a defining step in strengthening democratic institutions. He noted that greater participation by women would enrich governance and decision-making.
Alongside the policy push, the Prime Minister extended greetings for several festivals across the country. He also highlighted India's cultural diversity.
"I convey my best wishes to all those across India and the world who are marking these festivals. May these auspicious occasions bring happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives," PM Modi stated.
The Prime Minister also referred to key national occasions approaching in April, asserting, "Furthermore, on the 11th of April, we will commence the 200th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Phule, and on the 14th, India will pay homage to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on Ambedkar Jayanti. In addition to these special occasions, when the spirit of renewal fills our hearts and minds, our nation stands at the threshold of another historic occasion. It is an opportunity to deepen the foundations of our democracy and to reaffirm our collective commitment to equality and inclusion."
In his Op-Ed, PM Modi underlined that the proposed legislation reflects a broader principle of national progress.
"It is an affirmation of a principle that has long guided our civilisational ethos, that society progresses when women progress," the Prime Minister added.
The Prime Minister pointed out that women have made notable contributions across sectors. He further added that their presence in legislative institutions has lagged behind.
"Yet, their representation in the world of politics and legislative bodies has not always been commensurate with their role in society. This is particularly unfortunate because when women participate in administration and decision-making, they bring with them experiences and insights that enrich public discourse and improve the quality of governance," PM Modi noted.
Referring to earlier attempts by successive governments, the Prime Minister noted that efforts to introduce such provisions had not succeeded. He further added that this was despite broad agreement on the issue.
PM Modi said it is imperative that the 2029 Lok Sabha elections are conducted with women's reservation in place. He further added that the upcoming Assembly elections in various states should also follow the same approach.
The Prime Minister said successive governments have made repeated efforts over the decades. He further added that these efforts aimed to secure women their rightful place in democratic institutions.
"Committees were made, bill drafts were introduced, but they never saw the light of day. But the broad consensus has remained that women's representation in legislative bodies has to increase. In September 2023, Parliament passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam with the same spirit of consensus. I consider it to be among the most special occasions of my life," PM Modi further added.
Emphasising that the opportunity should not be deferred, the Prime Minister added, " For decades, the need for greater participation of women in legislative institutions has been acknowledged, discussed and reaffirmed. To postpone action now would mean extending an imbalance that we already recognise and have the capacity to correct."
Calling for collective responsibility, PM Modi stated, "This moment calls for collective action. Not about any one government, party or individual. It is about the nation as a whole recognising the importance of this step and coming together to realise it. It is what we owe to our Nari Shakti. For that reason, the passage of a bill on women's reservation should reflect the broadest possible consensus and serve the larger national interest. Such opportunities call upon us to act not for ourselves, but for future generations. They remind us that the true strength of a democracy lies in its ability to evolve and to become more inclusive over time."
Appealing directly to lawmakers, the Prime Minister asserted, "As we approach this historic Parliament sitting, I appeal to all Members of Parliament, across party lines, to come together in support of this important step for the women of India. Let us seize this opportunity with a sense of responsibility and purpose. Let us act in a manner that reflects the highest traditions of our democracy."
PM Modi concluded by expressing confidence that the country can act in unity on issues of national importance.
"India has always shown that when it comes to matters of national importance, it can rise above differences and act with unity. This is one such moment. Let us move forward together and strengthen Constitutional values and empower our Nari Shakti for national progress," PM Modi added.