Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has called for the 2023 Women’s Reservation Act to be enacted independently from proposals to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha. At a recent event in Washington DC, she emphasised that achieving a representation of 180 women in Parliament would be a significant initial step.

During the New India Conference at the Hudson Institute, Chaturvedi highlighted the current disparity in representation, noting that although women represent 50 per cent of India’s population and electorate, their presence in the legislature remains at a mere 13 to 14 per cent. She expressed her commitment to advocating for women, stating, “This unfortunate reality must be addressed.”

Chaturvedi remarked on the long-standing struggle for women’s representation, which has persisted for approximately three decades, asserting that this situation is not aligned with the vision of India’s founding fathers. She stated that the recent delays and complications surrounding the Women’s Reservation Act are disappointing, reflecting a failure to honour the voices of women in the political arena.

Proposal for Increased Seats Sparks Controversy

Chaturvedi pointed out that the discussion surrounding the addition of seats in Parliament has become a contentious issue that cannot be decided swiftly. On April 17, opposition parties voted against the Constitution Amendment Bill aimed at securing a percentage reservation for women in the Lok Sabha. The bill, however, did not achieve the required two-thirds majority for approval.

The BJP-led government’s effort to push the amendment forward found limited support, with 298 members voting in favour while 230 opposed it. As a result, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla confirmed that the bill had failed to pass. In light of this outcome, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that the Centre would refrain from advancing any related legislations that were linked to the unsuccessful amendment.

Chaturvedi reiterated her belief that separating the Women’s Reservation Bill from the seat addition proposal would allow for a more straightforward implementation. She expressed hope that Prime Minister Modi would fulfil his commitment to enhancing women’s representation in politics by ensuring the bill’s enactment in its current form.

Future Implications for Women’s Representation

Speaking further on the subject, Chaturvedi noted the significant impact that increased representation of women in Parliament could have on legislative processes. If the 2023 bill were to be enacted without the complications related to seat changes, it could lead to a substantial improvement in gender representation within government.

The MP called for urgent attention to the issue of women’s representation, stressing its importance not only for gender equality but also for the health of the democratic process. She maintained that the current level of representation is inadequate for a country where women account for half of the population.

Overall, Chaturvedi’s advocacy reflects a broader movement aimed at achieving equal representation for women in Indian politics, reinforcing the necessity for immediate actions to address longstanding disparities. Her remarks at the New India Conference serve as a clarion call for renewed efforts to realise this essential goal in the nation’s legislative framework.

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