Former President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has expressed strong support for the implementation of the women’s reservation bill, calling it a “transformative step” for Indian democracy. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Patil described the *Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam* as a landmark constitutional reform that would significantly enhance women’s representation in legislative bodies. Patil, who served as India’s first woman President from 2007 to 2012, emphasized that women have long contributed across sectors despite facing structural and social barriers. She said the legislation formally recognizes their potential and creates pathways for leadership at the highest levels of governance. Her remarks come ahead of a Special Session of Parliament beginning April 16, where key amendments and a proposed delimitation bill are expected to be discussed to operationalize one-third reservation for women in Parliament. Calling the bill “far more than a legal provision,” Patil noted it reflects a collective commitment to gender equality and inclusive development. She added that increased representation of women would enrich parliamentary debates and promote balanced policymaking. Meanwhile, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi criticized the timing of the bill, terming it an “underhand tactic,” highlighting ongoing political differences over the reform.
