Women's Reservation Bill Defeated: A Setback in Gender Representation

The Telangana BJP criticizes the Congress for opposing the Women's Reservation Bill, labeling the day as a 'black day.' Despite support from 298 members, the Bill, which proposed 33% legislative reservation for women, was defeated. Accusations of prioritizing Nehru family interests and lack of Muslim representation have fueled protests.

The Telangana BJP has strongly criticized Congress for 'stalling' a crucial Constitution Amendment Bill aimed at women's reservation. This action, according to BJP president N Ramchander Rao, marks a 'black day' for denying women their rightful representation in legislative bodies, including the Lok Sabha.

In a video message, Rao accused the Congress of prioritizing the interests of the Nehru family over achieving broader representation. Highlighting reported remarks by Rahul Gandhi regarding the bill's lack of Muslim reservation, Rao stated, 'Rahul Gandhi ji opposes the bill due to no reservation for Muslims. This defeat is a defeat for the women of our country.' He further urged Telangana women to challenge Congress leaders.

Despite garnering support from 298 members, the Bill aimed at implementing a 33 percent reservation for women by 2029 and increasing Lok Sabha seats to 816, was defeated. Out of 528 members who voted, the Bill needed 352 votes to achieve a two-thirds majority. Following this, the Telangana BJP has called for protests against the Congress for its role in the bill's defeat.

(With inputs from agencies.)