New Delhi, April 16
Addressing the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly defended the women’s reservation and delimitation bills, assuring that the proposed law would neither discriminate nor cause injustice. He emphasized that the legislation would not serve the interests of any single political party. “If you oppose me, I will get the political benefit but if you support us, no one will be benefited,” he remarked, underlining that the government was not seeking credit for the move and was even willing to let the Opposition claim it.
The Prime Minister urged political parties not to give the issue of women’s reservation a political colour, stressing that this was a historic opportunity to empower half of India’s population. He warned that those opposing the bill would pay a long-term political price, reminding MPs that the women of the country have not forgiven those who resisted such measures in the past. Modi described the legislation as a nation-building process, one that would shape the country’s politics and governance with greater sensitivity and inclusivity.
Taking a swipe at Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Modi referred to him as a friend who occasionally offers support, while also highlighting his own humble background. He said the Constitution had shown him the path to take everyone along, and it was the strength of the Constitution that entrusted someone from a backward section of society with such responsibility. He also mocked the DMK’s black attire protest, thanking them for putting a “Kala Tika” on the bills to ward off the evil eye.
Modi reiterated his vision of a “Viksit Bharat,” where policymaking embodies the mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” He stressed that a developed India is not just about infrastructure but also about ensuring women’s participation in decision-making. He offered his “guarantee” that the women’s quota law would not be unjust or discriminatory, and urged MPs not to let this opportunity slip away. Highlighting the growing political leadership of women at the grassroots level, he said the reservation bill was crucial for every party that wishes to succeed in the future.
