Women's Quota Bill Defeat Sparks Political Outcry

The defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill, which proposed 33% reservation for women in legislatures and the increase of Lok Sabha seats, has triggered criticism from former Jharkhand chief ministers and BJP leaders. They accuse the Congress and INDIA bloc of betraying women's rights and politicizing gender representation.

The defeat of a crucial Constitution Amendment Bill that aimed to implement a 33% reservation for women in legislatures by 2029 has become a significant political flashpoint. Former Jharkhand chief ministers and BJP leaders have lashed out at Congress and the INDIA bloc for stalling progress on gender equality.

Raghubar Das, a former chief minister, accused opposition parties of revealing their 'true colors' by failing to ensure rights for women, who make up half of India's population. Das called the defeat a betrayal of the dreams of millions of women seeking representation.

Champai Soren, another ex-chief minister, termed the bill's failure as an 'insult' to women's power ('Nari Shakti') and blamed opposition parties like the Congress and Samajwadi Party for blocking its passage. The controversy is expected to have electoral repercussions as the ruling party vows to continue its fight for gender representation in Parliament.

(With inputs from agencies.)