Allegations of Delayed Implementation and Deception Surround the Proposed Legislation

NEW-DELHI: The Introduction of the women's reservation bill in the Lok Sabha, aimed at providing one-third reservation to women in various political spheres, has stirred a wave of criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Both parties have voiced concerns, branding the bill as a misleading election promise and accusing the government of delaying its execution.

Congress Deems the Bill as 'Election Jumla', Accuses Government of Deception

The Congress party, on Tuesday, denounced the women's reservation bill as a 'Election Jumla,' alleging that women have been misled by the provisions stating that the legislation will be based on the latest census and delimitation and will be applicable only from 2029. Party General Secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed skepticism, stating that if the government truly prioritized women's empowerment, the bill should have been implemented immediately without any contingencies. He further criticized the government for its alleged failure to conduct the 2021 census.

Jairam Ramesh accused the bill of being a hollow promise, stating, "In fact, this bill is in the news with a very vague promise of its implementation date. It is nothing but EVM-event management.'' Party spokesperson Supriya Srinath echoed these sentiments, highlighting the disappointment felt by the women of the country due to the delayed implementation proposed by the bill.

Notably, Senior AAP leader Atishi criticized the Women's Reservation Bill, alleging it to be a deceptive tactic ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Atishi contended that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was not genuinely interested in women's welfare and development. She emphasized the inclusion of conditions related to demarcation and census, suggesting that reservation for women may not be realized until after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Atishi demanded the removal of discriminatory conditions and immediate implementation of women's reservation for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. AAP's Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha echoed these demands, expressing concern over the bill's potential delay due to census and delimitation requirements. He called for the swift and unequivocal implementation of women's reservation, emphasizing the need to prioritize gender equality without unnecessary delays.