Women’s Reservation Bill

Sir,
Women’s Reservation Bill, which proposes to provide 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies is a step towards women empowerment in India. This long-awaited and much-needed step is a commendable effort to address the gender imbalance in Indian politics and foster true gender equality.
The Women’s Reservation Bill, known as the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, has been in the making for 27 years, facing numerous challenges and controversies. However, it has heartening to see that it has finally been discussed and passed in the Parliament. The under representation of women in Parliament and State Assemblies, with only 15 percent and below 10 percent, respectively, highlights the urgent need for such a measure.
This bill carries several compelling advantages. It not only enhances women’s representation in politics but also empowers them to shape policies and decisions that impact our nation. It can lead to better healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and improved measures to combat violence against women. Moreover, it serves as an inspiration for future generations of women to pursue careers in politics, thereby promoting diverse perspectives and experiences in governance.
While there are concerns about the bill, including fears of prioritizing gender over merit, it is important to recognize that it is a crucial step toward rectifying a historical imbalance.
Sumit Sharma
Jammu