Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday hailed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a transformative step towards achieving gender equality in India, asserting that enhanced representation of women in legislative bodies would make governance more inclusive and balanced.
In a post on X, Sarma said the law marks a decisive shift in India’s democratic journey by ensuring that women have a stronger voice in shaping policies and the country’s future. “For decades, women’s voices have been underrepresented in shaping policy. This reform changes that, giving them a rightful place at the table where the nation’s future is decided,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that women leaders bring perspectives rooted in lived experiences, which significantly influence policymaking in areas such as health, education, safety and empowerment. He added that greater representation would also inspire women and young girls to aspire for leadership roles.
“This is not just a reform, but a step towards a more representative and equitable India,” Sarma said.
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, widely known as the Women’s Reservation Bill, will be discussed in the Parliament during a special session convened by the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Bill seeks to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women.
The special session of Parliament, which is scheduled to begin on April 16, is seen as a significant political move by the Modi government to push forward long-pending reforms aimed at enhancing women’s participation in politics.
The legislation has been widely described as a historic step, as it attempts to address the long-standing gender gap in political representation in India. However, its implementation is expected to follow the completion of delimitation and census exercises.
The move aligns with the Centre’s broader emphasis on women-led development, a key theme highlighted by the Modi government in recent years.
Sarma’s remarks add to the growing chorus of support from leaders across the political spectrum, underscoring the significance of the legislation in reshaping India’s democratic framework.
(IANS)
