NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (April 14) called on citizens to actively back the women’s reservation push, urging them to write to their MPs ahead of a crucial Parliament session where the proposal is expected to be taken up.
The appeal came alongside a broader outreach marking the 135th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar, as the government prepares for discussions on the constitutional amendment related to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam from April 16 to 18.
PM Modi said April 14 holds deep significance in India’s history. “Today, 14 April, is a day that holds immense significance in India’s history. It is the Jayanti of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar… I pay tribute to him and recall his commitment to constitutional values, which continues to guide our journey,” he said.
‘Write to your MP’, PM urges as bill heads for Parliament
In a direct appeal, the Prime Minister asked citizens, especially women, to engage with lawmakers ahead of the session. “I urge you all to write to your local MPs and encourage them as they participate in this historic Parliament sitting. Remind them that they will be doing something whose impact will be felt for centuries to come,” he said.
He underlined that any delay in implementing women’s reservation would be unjust. “Any further delay will be unfortunate and a gross injustice to the women of India. The daughters of India cannot be asked to wait endlessly for what is rightfully theirs,” he added.
‘Women across India welcoming this decision’
PM Modi said there is widespread enthusiasm around the proposal, with women across the country expressing support. “Women from all over the nation are expressing their joy at getting a stronger opportunity to contribute towards building a Viksit Bharat,” he said.
He added that the increased participation of women across sectors reflects a larger social shift. “All of you, our Nari Shakti, are making your mark in every aspect of national life… this active contribution is one of the most gladdening developments of our times.”
From startups to sports, PM highlights rising role of women
The Prime Minister pointed to growing representation of women in fields ranging from startups and science to arts and sports. “Look at the world of startups… so many of them have women in leadership roles,” he said, adding that science, innovation, and cultural fields are also seeing increasing participation.
He described the transformation in sports as particularly striking. “Indian women athletes are winning more medals, breaking records and challenging old mindsets. Their successes are inspiring several other young girls to pursue sports,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of Self-Help Groups and “Lakhpati Didis” in promoting self-reliance and empowering women at the grassroots level.
‘Fitting to increase women’s seats in Lok Sabha’
Making the legislative case, Modi said expanding women’s representation in Parliament is a natural next step. “With women excelling in several of the above fields, it is only fitting that we increase the participation of women in legislative bodies,” he said.
He recalled historical efforts, noting that leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had advocated reservation for women, and that India granted equal voting rights at Independence. However, he acknowledged that multiple attempts over decades failed to reach a conclusion.
“On some occasions, it was a case of coming very close yet remaining very far… a subject on which there has always been consensus was never able to reach its logical conclusion,” he said.
‘Women’s participation non-negotiable for Viksit Bharat’
Linking the reform to India’s long-term vision, Modi said women’s participation is essential for achieving the goal of a developed nation by 2047. “When they become active participants in policymaking and decision-making, the journey towards a Viksit Bharat is strengthened,” he said.
He stressed that women’s role in governance is “absolutely non-negotiable” and called for collective political will. “It is important that we all come together and ensure that women’s representation in legislative bodies is introduced in letter and spirit at the very earliest,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that implementing reservation from the 2029 elections would strengthen democracy. “Our democracy will become stronger and more vibrant if the 2029 Lok Sabha elections… are held with women’s reservation fully in place,” he said. - The Statesman/ANN
