Centre Plans Fast-Track Implementation of Women’s Quota, Parliament Session May Be Extended

The Centre is gearing up to fasten the implementation of the Women’s Reservation law, with plans to extend the Budget Session of Parliament and even hold a special two-day session to introduce key amendments.

The Women's Reservation Act 2023, provides for 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. But the implementation has been stuck in limbo due to its linkage with the delimitation exercise, scheduled to be carried out in 2027-28.

Now, the Centre is considering amendments to the legislation to free it from the delimitation exercise and expedite its implementation.

Sources indicate that discussions, including those led by Amit Shah, are focused on creating a clear roadmap to operationalise the quota ahead of the 2029 general elections.

What Changes Are Being Considered

One of the prominent ideas that is currently being considered is an increase in the number of Lok Sabha seats by almost 50%, from 543 to 816, with 273 of them reserved for women.

The other ideas that are included in this plan are:

• Fixing reserved constituencies for women for three consecutive terms
• Inclusion of 33% quota in SC/ST reserved constituencies
• Implementation of 2011 census data to avoid delays in allocating seats 

Why the Rush

Officials believe that if the quota remains tied to delimitation and future census exercises, its implementation could be pushed well beyond 2029. By delinking the process now, the government hopes to ensure that women’s reservation becomes a reality in the next general election cycle.

Political Implications

This is a constitutional amendment that requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Thus, the support of the opposition parties is essential for the passage of the constitutional amendment.

There may also be a debate about the inclusion of the OBC quota in the quota for women. Another factor that may come into the picture is the increase in the number of Lok Sabha seats and the possibility that the northern states may gain more than the southern states.

What Happens Next 

The government has called an all-party meeting to consider the constitutional amendment.

If the parties agree on the constitutional amendment, a special session may be convened to introduce and pass the constitutional amendments. This is not just a move by the government; it is also a political move that may gain importance in the elections that lie ahead.

 

 

 

 

 

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