PM Modi says India close to implementing women’s reservation, calls it 'historic step'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 13 said India is “on the brink of making history” as the long-pending women’s reservation in legislatures moves closer to implementation.

Speaking at the Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelanscheduled, Modi emphasised that the reform would strengthen democratic institutions and accelerate women-led development.

The proposed framework seeks to operationalise the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which provides for 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

In recent outreach to political parties, Modi urged leaders to support amendments required to implement the law, stressing that it should be enforced in its “true spirit.”

The government is aiming to roll out the reservation in time for the 2029 general elections, with the implementation linked to the delimitation exercise that will follow the next census.

An upcoming special session of Parliament from April 16 to 18 is expected to deliberate on key legislative changes needed to operationalise the quota, including adjustments tied to constituency delimitation.

The Prime Minister emphasised that women’s participation has historically shaped India’s progress, from the freedom struggle to leadership roles in governance.

He noted that over 14 lakh women are currently serving in Panchayati Raj institutions, calling it a strong example of grassroots leadership while urging women to actively engage in the political process, interact with their MPs, and voice their expectations.

Speaking at the event, Union Minister of Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi said the legislation would strengthen women’s representation and self-reliance, while Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta highlighted the role of government schemes in improving women’s access to opportunities and financial inclusion.

The move has also triggered political debate, with opposition leaders calling for greater consultation and clarity on the process, particularly regarding the timing and linkage with delimitation.

The women’s reservation law, passed in 2023 after decades of debate, is seen as a major step towards increasing representation of women in India’s legislative bodies, where their presence has historically remained limited.