Congress Accuses Modi Government of Delaying Women's Reservation Bill

The Congress party has reiterated its longstanding demand for the immediate implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill in India's legislatures. On Tuesday, the party recalled previous letters written by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging for the Bill's passage.

Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in-charge of communications, criticized the Modi government, claiming it intentionally delayed the legislation, which remains stalled. According to Ramesh, the Congress has consistently supported the Bill, which would significantly empower women by ensuring their representation in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

The Congress's demand comes after the failed attempt to pass the government's Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which was defeated in the Lok Sabha. The proposal included increasing the number of seats to accommodate a 33 percent reservation for women. Despite support from 298 members, the Bill fell short of the two-thirds majority needed for approval.