Naveen Patnaik Calls for Urgent Action on Delimitation and Women's Reservation Bills

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik urges action on the Delimitation and Women's Reservation Bills, ensuring Odisha's political rights and supporting women's representation. He calls for a special Assembly session and highlights Biju Janata Dal's commitment to women's empowerment in line with constitutional values and cooperative federalism.

In a significant political move, former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal leader Naveen Patnaik has urged CM Mohan Charan Majhi to ensure Odisha's political rights remain protected amidst new legislative reforms. On Wednesday, Patnaik announced his party's support for the Delimitation and Women's Reservation Bills but stressed the importance of maintaining Odisha's representative stature.

Patnaik warned that any reduction in political rights could diminish the aspirations of the state's people, emphasizing that the Delimitation Bill must adhere to cooperative federalism principles. He called on CM Majhi to convene a special Assembly session within 48 hours to pass a resolution ensuring Odisha's political rights are preserved.

Highlighting the Biju Janata Dal's commitment to women's empowerment, Patnaik stressed the party's history of championing women's representation. The Women's Reservation Bill, part of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, aims for 33% reservation for women legislators, and Patnaik reaffirmed his party's support for national policies that amplify women's roles in governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)