Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Friday that India had made history with the successful passage of the women’s reservation bill through Parliament.
Addressing the gathering at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to all political parties for their support of the bill, which heralds a new era of women-led development in the country. The bill has been named “Nari Shakti Vandan-Abhinandan Karyakram” by the government.
Here are the key highlights from PM Modi’s address:
- The bill reflects the government’s commitment to the “New India” initiative of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” The “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam” is not just an ordinary law; it signifies the new democratic commitment of a new India.
- Despite facing numerous obstacles, this women’s reservation bill succeeded because of pure intentions and transparent efforts. It is noteworthy that the bill received significant support in Parliament. The Prime Minister extended his gratitude to all political parties and MPs for their support.
- Some decisions have the potential to shape the nation’s future, and we have witnessed one such decision. On September 20-21, India created history, and we are fortunate that the people gave us the opportunity to do so.
- Congratulations to all the women of the country. Over the past few days, we have witnessed the making of a new chapter in history, thanks to the chance given to us by millions of people.
- Our government has made extensive efforts to empower women through schemes promoting their security, dignity, and prosperity.
- The BJP has been working for the past three decades to ensure women’s participation in democracy through this law. This was our commitment, and today, we have fulfilled it.
- This legislation demonstrates that a majority government, a strong government, a decisive government is essential for advancing the nation.
- We enacted a law to abolish the harmful practice of triple talaq, which inflicted suffering on women. Millions of Muslim women have been liberated from this inhumane practice.
- With an absolute majority in power, we were able to accomplish such significant work for the nation. We did not allow anyone’s self-interest to obstruct women’s reservation. While most people voted in favor of the bill, a few questioned the inclusion of “Nari Shakti Vandan.” Shouldn’t the women of the country be acknowledged? Is there room for such arrogance in our society and political ideology that we are uncomfortable with “Nari Shakti Vandan”?
Earlier on Friday, PM Modi received an enthusiastic welcome and was felicitated by members of the BJP’s Mahila Morcha.
The 27-year-long wait for parliamentary approval of the women’s quota in legislatures came to an end on Thursday as the Rajya Sabha unanimously passed the Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill 2023, which seeks to reserve one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures.
The women’s quota bill, “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam,” will automatically apply to the assemblies of all states and Union Territories, including Delhi and Puducherry.
