Women's Reservation Bill Sparks Political Firestorm in Uttar Pradesh

In Uttar Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya supports the Women's Reservation Bill while accusing Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav of playing politics and being anti-women. Meanwhile, Yadav questions the government's motives and emphasizes the need for a caste-based census. The debate continues in Lok Sabha.

The Women's Reservation Amendment Bill ignited significant political debate in Uttar Pradesh as Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya hailed it as a historic milestone. He criticized Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, labeling him as 'anti-women' and accused him of obstructing the bill for political gain.

Maurya emphasized that if the proposed bills are approved, women will receive a 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha from the 2029 elections, with an increase of parliamentary seats by 50% following delimitation. He warned that those against the bill would face electoral consequences from half the population.

On the other hand, Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP-led government of stalling the caste-based census to avoid implementing caste-based reservations. He expressed support for the Women's Reservation Bill but questioned the government's intentions, urging clarity on the representation of women across ruling states.

(With inputs from agencies.)