PM Modi Urges All MPs to Back Women Reservation Bill; 273 Lok Sabha Seats to be Reserved

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday called on all Members of Parliament to support the proposed amendments to the Women Reservation Act, saying it is not just a legislative exercise but a reflection of the aspirations of crores of women across India. In a signed article on his website, narendramodi.in, he emphasized that empowering women aligns with India’s civilisational ethos, which holds that society progresses when women progress. He highlighted the importance of implementing women's reservation in the upcoming 2029 Lok Sabha elections and state assembly elections, calling it an opportunity to deepen democracy and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to equality and inclusion.

PM Modi noted that Parliament will convene a special three-day sitting from April 16 to 18 to discuss and pass the amendments, known as the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam'. The changes will increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816, with 273 seats reserved for women, and provide for proportional reservation for SCs and STs. While the 33% reservation was constitutionally amended in 2023, it will only come into effect after the delimitation exercise based on the 2027 Census. A similar process will apply to state assemblies.

The Prime Minister highlighted that women constitute nearly half of India’s population, and their contributions span every field, from science, technology, entrepreneurship, sports, and the armed forces to the arts. Despite this, women’s representation in politics has historically been limited. He stressed that women bring unique experiences and insights to governance, enriching public discourse and decision-making. Over the decades, efforts by previous governments to increase women’s representation were initiated but did not fully materialise.

Also Read: Centre Plans Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Amendment Based on 2011 Census Before April 2

Referring to the 2023 passage of the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', PM Modi said this moment is a historic opportunity to fulfil the vision of the Constitution, which seeks equality in practice. Strengthening women’s participation in legislative institutions, he said, is essential for building a society where every citizen has an equal stake in shaping the nation’s future. He stressed that delaying women’s representation weakens the quality and inclusiveness of democracy.

PM Modi concluded by appealing to MPs across party lines to come together in support of the bill. “Let us seize this opportunity with responsibility and purpose,” he said. He emphasized that India has consistently risen above differences on matters of national importance and urged lawmakers to act collectively to strengthen constitutional values and empower Nari Shakti for the country’s progress.

Also Read: Centre Plans Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Amendment Based on 2011 Census Before April 2