Divya Delhi: The Indian National Congress on Friday demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the delay in implementing the women’s reservation law, accusing the government of political opportunism and policy inconsistency. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the Prime Minister had failed to act when the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was passed unanimously in Parliament in 2023. He alleged that the government initially linked the implementation of the law to delimitation and census exercises, which were delayed, and has now taken a “U-turn” under political pressure. Ramesh claimed the shift in stance was aimed at influencing voters, particularly women, ahead of key elections. He also criticised the government for what he described as a lack of planning and unwillingness to engage constructively with the Opposition. The remarks came a day after Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of women’s reservation, calling it a step toward strengthening democracy and ensuring inclusive growth. He urged lawmakers to support proposed amendments that would enable the implementation of the law from the 2029 general elections. A special three-day session of Parliament is scheduled from April 16 to 18 to deliberate on the amendments. The law currently provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, linked to future delimitation exercises.
