Maharashtra Congress Leader Anant Gadgil Raises Alarm over Women's Reservation Act

Anant Gadgil, a Congress leader from Maharashtra, raised concerns about the Women's Reservation Act, suggesting it could create an emotional divide between northern and southern states. He questioned the urgency of its implementation without waiting for updated census data, warning it might shift parliamentary representation disproportionately.

Maharashtra's Congress leader, Anant Gadgil, has voiced strong concerns regarding the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', popularly known as the Women's Reservation Act. He warned that its enactment could lead to a significant emotional divide between India's northern and southern states.

Gadgil highlighted issues with the timing of the legislation, questioning why the government is pushing for its implementation using outdated census data rather than waiting for updated figures expected by 2027. He contended that the hasty move could alter the political landscape, particularly increasing Lok Sabha seats in northern states at the expense of southern states, potentially diminishing Maharashtra's political clout.

The Congress leader also emphasized that the bill requires a two-thirds majority for passage and accused the government of using it as a political tool to either claim success or blame the Opposition. He cautioned about the longer-term risks of exacerbating regional disparities in representation, potentially leading to a North-South emotional divide.

(With inputs from agencies.)