Debate Ignites as Opposition Blocks Women’s Reservation Bill

Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu criticizes opposition for rejecting a bill to increase Lok Sabha seats and support women's reservation. He appeals to PM Modi for resolution, as the amendment requires a two-thirds majority. The ruling party labels the opposition as anti-women.

In a significant political development, Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, has openly criticized the opposition for voting against the Constitution 131st Amendment Bill. This bill, aimed at increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850, was defeated in Parliament, failing to achieve the required two-thirds majority.

Khandu expressed his disappointment, highlighting that the bill was a progressive initiative that sought to implement women's reservation in the legislature. He accused the opposition of stepping back from an opportunity to support women's empowerment, despite their rhetoric on Naari Shakti.

The Arunachal Pradesh CM continues to hope for intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to resolve this setback. The ruling BJP has chastised the opposition, labeling them as 'anti-women', amid allegations that the seat increase was disguised as a women's quota bill.

(With inputs from agencies.)