GOVERNMENT CONVENES SPECIAL SESSION FOR WOMEN'S RESERVATION ACT CHANGES
Parliament is set to convene for a special three-day sitting from April 16 to April 18, 2026. The extended Budget session will focus on proposed amendments to the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', commonly known as the Women's Reservation Act. The government aims to bring these amendments for consideration and passage during this period, with a stated intention to implement the women's quota before the 2029 general elections.
PARTIES ISSUE WHIPS TO MPS FOR ATTENDANCE
In anticipation of these proceedings, both major political parties have issued strict directives to their Members of Parliament. The Congress has issued a whip to all its Lok Sabha MPs, requesting their mandatory presence from 11 am until the adjournment on April 16, 17, and 18. The party has communicated that "very important issues" will be discussed and voted upon, labeling the directive as "MOST IMPORTANT".
Similarly, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also issued a three-line whip to its MPs in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. This directive calls for their continuous presence throughout the three days of the special sitting.
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AMENDMENTS AND IMPLEMENTATION DETAILS REMAIN UNCLEAR
Reports indicate that the Union Cabinet has cleared draft bills proposing significant changes. These include the potential implementation of the women's quota before the 2029 polls and an increase in the total number of Lok Sabha seats to 816, with 273 seats reserved for women.
However, opposition figures, including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, have raised concerns about the lack of detailed information regarding the delimitation process and other crucial aspects linked to the amendments. Kharge has stated that without these details, "meaningful discussion" on the women's quota law would be impossible. He has called for an all-party meeting to discuss the delimitation exercise following April 29.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to political parties to rise above partisan considerations and demonstrate responsibility towards women and future generations. He has also sought cooperation across party lines for the quota's rollout, acknowledging that members from various parties supported the original legislation.
BACKGROUND
The 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' itself represents a long-standing national aspiration, with its passage involving cross-party efforts. The current special session, however, is framed by differing approaches to its implementation, with the government pushing for swift action on amendments while some opposition parties seek greater clarity and consultative discussion. The ruling NDA holds a numerical advantage in the Lok Sabha, suggesting the eventual passage of any proposed legislation.
