Women's Quota Law Sparks High-Stakes Opposition Strategy Meet

Opposition leaders convened at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's residence to devise a joint approach against the Women's Reservation Act changes, which tie gender quotas with delimitation based on the 2011 Census. Criticizing it as a political ploy, the leaders are set to discuss the contentious amendments in Parliament soon.

On the eve of a pivotal three-day Parliament session, key opposition figures gathered at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's home to unify their stance on the women's quota legislation. The meeting saw leaders voicing disapproval of linking the women's reservation law with seat delimitation based on the 2011 Census.

They accused the ruling NDA of politicizing the law, which targets 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies by 2029. Amendments are expected during the special session starting April 16. Lawmakers from parties such as the Congress, DMK, Trinamool Congress, and Samajwadi Party attended the session.

The government has circulated bills proposing seat increases to facilitate these quotas. Opposition parties view the intent as 'mischievous' and 'devious,' warning of a significant threat to parliamentary democracy. They plan robust counterarguments as the session progresses.

(With inputs from agencies.)