The Women’s Reservation Bill:
The Women’s Reservation Bill, a significant milestone in Indian democracy, has finally been passed, marking a historic moment in the nation’s political landscape. On September 20th and 21st, 2023, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha resoundingly approved the bill, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt celebration at the BJP headquarters, expressed his joy and gratitude.
A Long-Awaited Commitment Fulfilled
Prime Minister Modi began his speech by acknowledging the importance of this momentous decision. He stated that the bill’s passage fulfills a commitment that the BJP had been advocating for three decades. This commitment to empowering women in politics has now been translated into action, showcasing the strength of decisive governance with a clear majority.
Celebrations at BJP Headquarters
Outside the BJP headquarters, women workers gathered to celebrate this historic achievement. They rejoiced by applying gulal and distributing sweets, symbolizing the triumph of gender equality and the empowerment of women in politics.
Modi’s Key Messages
During his 40-minute address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized several key points:
Empowering Women’s Confidence:
Modi noted that the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill has elevated the confidence of women across the nation. It is a transformative decision that has been long-awaited and will shape India’s future.
A Proclamation of New India:
He described the bill as more than just a law; it is a proclamation of a new India. This landmark legislation is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the lives of women.
Decades of Persistence:
Modi highlighted that the BJP had persistently pursued this legislation for three decades, overcoming various obstacles. The bill’s unanimous support in both houses of Parliament was a remarkable achievement.
Bipartisan Support:
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the widespread support the bill received across the political spectrum. It was a moment when politicians came together, setting aside their differences for a common cause.
The Legislative Journey
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s legislative journey was marked by determination and unity. The Central Government convened a special session of Parliament from September 18th to 22nd. In the Lok Sabha, a rigorous 7-hour discussion on September 20th led to a resounding victory, with 454 votes in favor and only 2 against. The bill was then introduced in the Rajya Sabha on September 21st, where all 214 present MPs supported it.
The bill now proceeds to the state assemblies. Once it is passed by at least 50% of the assemblies, it will be sent to the President for final approval, transforming it into law.
A Symbol of Women’s Empowerment
The special session of Parliament, scheduled to conclude on September 22nd, ended a day early with the bill’s passage. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that this unanimous support from political parties across the nation would invigorate the women power of India.
A Victory 14 Years in the Making
The Women’s Reservation Bill’s journey began 14 years ago, and it had faced several hurdles. However, the Modi government reintroduced it in 2023, marking the 11th attempt by four different governments in the past 27 years. If it is ratified, the bill will reserve 33% of seats for women in both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
The ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Bill’
The Modi government introduced the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Bill’ on the first day of the new Parliament House’s proceedings. This legislation represents a significant step toward gender equality and political empowerment for women in India.
In conclusion, the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill is a historic victory for women’s rights and political representation in India. It underscores the nation’s commitment to gender equality and serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. With this landmark legislation, India has taken a significant stride towards empowering its women in politics.
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