New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the recent passage of the 33 per cent reservation for women legislation during a special parliamentary session. He hailed this achievement as a "declaration of the new democratic commitment of a new India." He credited the success of this long-awaited bill to the presence of a "decisive and stable government enjoying a strong majority at the Centre."
Modi was honoured by the BJP's 'Mahila Morcha' at the party headquarters for this legislative triumph. He also took the opportunity to criticise regional parties like Bihar's RJD and Uttar Pradesh's SP, pointing out that those who had previously opposed bills advocating reserved seats for women now supported the proposed law. He attributed this shift to the growing influence of women in the past decade of his government. The Prime Minister emphasised that his government had taken several measures to empower women and ensure their advancement before passing the bill.
He stated, "We took decisions for the betterment of women at all levels and didn't let anyone's political interests obstruct women's reservation. In the past, such bills were often merely a formality, and committed efforts were lacking. Attempts to demean women were also made."
Modi also addressed those who questioned the use of the term 'Nari Shakti Vandan' (Salutation to Women Power) by the government for the bill, asking whether the women of the country shouldn't be honoured and their dignity enhanced.
This legislation is expected to become a significant part of the BJP's campaign for the upcoming five Assembly elections in November-December and the Lok Sabha elections next year, as women voters are considered a strong support base for both the PM and the BJP.
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pass the bill, emphasising that the BJP's commitment over the last three decades had finally been fulfilled. He described the legislation as a transformative measure capable of instilling new confidence in women and enhancing India's strength.
He noted, "A new history was made on September 20 and 21," referring to the days when the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Modi attributed this success to the strong, stable, and decisive government that had the trust of the people.
He stated, "This shows how the country takes significant decisions when there is a decisive government with a strong majority." He said that women's self-confidence was soaring, and their inclusion in decision-making processes would bolster the nation's progress.
Modi affirmed, "This is proof of fulfilling 'Modi's guarantee' to usher in a new era of women-led development." He cited numerous government schemes and initiatives for women's welfare and empowerment, highlighting their contributions in various fields.
BJP president J.P. Nadda praised Modi for his efforts to empower women through decisions like the ban on triple talaq and the passage of the women's reservation bill. He considered the passage of the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' (Salutation to Women Power Act) a historic moment, made possible by Modi's vision, unwavering determination, and strong resolve.
The event also saw the presence of many women MPs from the party, including Union ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman and Smriti Irani.
