New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the nation at 8.30 pm on Saturday, a day after the Women’s Reservation Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has not disclosed the subject of the address, but its timing has drawn attention amid the political developments.
The announcement comes in the wake of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill failing to secure the required two-thirds majority in the Lower House, triggering sharp reactions from both the ruling government and the Opposition.
Women’s quota bill fails in Lok Sabha
The proposed legislation aimed to introduce 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. It also included provisions to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to 850 seats and carry out delimitation based on the 2011 Census.
However, the bill could not pass the crucial voting stage, with 298 Members of Parliament supporting it and 230 voting against it — falling short of the two-thirds majority required for constitutional amendments.
The setback marks a significant moment in Parliament, as the bill had been positioned as a major reform to enhance women’s representation in Indian politics.
PM’s remarks at Cabinet meeting
According to sources, Prime Minister Modi strongly criticised the Opposition during a Cabinet meeting held earlier in the day. He reportedly accused Opposition parties of acting against the interests of women by refusing to support the bill.
Sources indicated that the Prime Minister described the Opposition’s stance as a “mistake” and suggested it could have political consequences in the future. He is also believed to have emphasised the need to take this message to the grassroots level across the country.
The remarks signal the government’s intent to highlight the issue as a key political talking point in the coming period.
Opposition hits back
The Opposition, meanwhile, has presented a contrasting narrative following the bill’s defeat.
Priyanka Gandhi, speaking at a press conference at the Congress headquarters, termed the development a “big victory for democracy” and described it as a “black day” for the ruling government.
She alleged that the Centre attempted to push the bill by linking it with delimitation, claiming it was part of a broader strategy to retain political power. She also raised concerns about the use of the 2011 Census for delimitation instead of conducting a fresh census, suggesting it was an attempt to bypass demands for a caste census.
Political implications and next steps
The failure of the Women’s Reservation Bill has left key questions unresolved regarding women’s representation and the future of delimitation in India.
The issue is expected to remain at the centre of political discourse, with both the government and Opposition likely to continue debating its implications in the coming weeks.
Political analysts note that the Prime Minister’s address could provide clarity on the government’s next steps or outline its position following the parliamentary setback.
All eyes on PM’s address
With uncertainty surrounding the future of the bill and heightened political tensions, attention is now focused on Prime Minister Modi’s address later tonight.
The speech is expected to be closely watched, as it may set the tone for the government’s response and its strategy moving forward on the issue.
Conclusion
The rejection of the Women’s Reservation Bill marks a pivotal moment in India’s legislative landscape, triggering strong reactions across the political spectrum. As the nation awaits Prime Minister Modi’s address, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate the path ahead on women’s representation and electoral reforms.