New Delhi, Apr 14 (PTI) Appealing to all parties to ensure the timely implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill, leaders from the Centre for Social Research, on Tuesday, called the enactment of the Bill a “historic step toward correcting India’s long-standing democratic deficit in political representation”.
Speaking at a press conference at the Press Club of India, Ranjana Kumari, director of the Centre for Social Research and chairperson of Women Power Connect, urged political parties to move beyond partisan differences and operationalise the legislation without delay.
The law provides 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
“We urge all political parties, across ideological lines, to rise above partisan considerations and ensure the timely and effective implementation of this landmark reform in the forthcoming Special Session of Parliament,” said Kumari.
Several organisations, including Women Power Connect, the Joint Women Programme, CEQUIN, and Action India, participated in the press conference. Organisers said women remain significantly underrepresented in India’s highest decision-making bodies, with representation in the Lok Sabha at approximately 14 per cent, far below the global average (27.2 per cent).
“This reform is not merely about reservation; it is about strengthening democratic legitimacy by making governance more inclusive, representative, and accountable,” they added.
Citing the success of reservations in Panchayati Raj institutions, where over 14.6 lakh women hold elected positions, speakers highlighted how representation has already demonstrated women’s leadership capabilities and their commitment to community development.
The group outlined key demands for political parties, including building cross-party consensus ahead of the 2029 elections, ensuring timely implementation, and strengthening internal party systems to support women candidates.
Concerns were also raised about linking the law’s roll-out to processes such as the Census and delimitation, which could delay implementation. Administrative processes must not become a reason to stall progress, speakers noted. PTI AHD ASD ASD
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