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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 18, 2026, 12:17:53 IST
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Special Parliament session Live: Lok Sabha Speaker OM Birla meets MPs after Parliament adjourned Sine Die
Women Reservation Bill Debat: In the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Harivansh Narayan Singh on being elected unopposed as Deputy Chairman for a third consecutive term. Modi said the election reflected the House’s “deep trust” in Harivansh and praised his “intuitive leadership,” stating that the Upper House had become more effective under his stewardship. He noted that Harivansh not only conducts proceedings but also uses his experience to enrich debates, and expressed confidence that his new term would continue with balance, dedication, and commitment to strengthening parliamentary functioning.
Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions and voting on major constitutional and allied legislation on Day 2 of the Parliament session, including the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. These Bills are central to the government’s framework for implementing 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislative assemblies.
The Women’s Reservation Act, 2023—passed as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam—was formally notified to come into force from April 16, 2026. Officials said this was a technical step necessary to operationalise the constitutional amendment under consideration, adding that the law cannot be implemented in the current House and will take effect only after delimitation following the next Census.
The House also witnessed sharp political exchanges over delimitation, with opposition leaders flagging concerns over federal imbalance and regional representation.
Separately, the Rajya Sabha proceedings highlighted PM Modi’s remarks praising Harivansh’s leadership and long tenure in the Chair.
Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions and voting on major constitutional and allied legislation on Day 2 of the Parliament session, including the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. These Bills are central to the government’s framework for implementing 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislative assemblies.
The Women’s Reservation Act, 2023—passed as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam—was formally notified to come into force from April 16, 2026. Officials said this was a technical step necessary to operationalise the constitutional amendment under consideration, adding that the law cannot be implemented in the current House and will take effect only after delimitation following the next Census.
The House also witnessed sharp political exchanges over delimitation, with opposition leaders flagging concerns over federal imbalance and regional representation.
Separately, the Rajya Sabha proceedings highlighted PM Modi’s remarks praising Harivansh’s leadership and long tenure in the Chair.
12:07 (IST) Apr 17
Shashi Tharoor backs women’s quota consensus but slams linkage to delimitation in Lok Sabha
Addressing the Lok Sabha on Women's Reservation Bill, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said, "Today, we stand at a threshold where there is remarkably a near unanimous political consensus in favour of women's reservation. Every major party in this house recognises that the time for tokenism is over and the era of equal partnership must begin. And yet I'm finding myself deeply perturbed by the legislative exercise before us. The Prime Minister says the government has brought 'Nari Shakti', a gift of justice, but he has wrapped it in barbed wire, tethering the implementation of women's reservation to the expansion of Parliament, to numbers from the 2011 census, and an exercise of delimitation."
11:45 (IST) Apr 17
Delimitation debate rages on: Shashi Tharoor leads oppn charge in Lok Sabha; Rahul may speak at 3pm
Opposing linking women quota Bill to delimitation, the congress leader said, ' it's like holding aspiration of women hostage’.
11:41 (IST) Apr 17
Shashi Tharoor addresses Lok Sabha, opposes women's reservation bill
11:39 (IST) Apr 17
'This is a process... don't make it an issue': Kiren Rijiju on Women's Reservation Bill
Speaking to reporters, Kiren Rijiju said, “This is a process. We are currently introducing the law for amendment. The older law wasn't implemented, which is why the commencement notification was issued. This is a process. Let's not make the process an issue.”
His remarks came as the Lok Sabha is set to continue discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 extending the provision to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which proposes increasing and redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies up to 850.
His remarks came as the Lok Sabha is set to continue discussion and vote on the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 extending the provision to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, and the Delimitation Bill, which proposes increasing and redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies up to 850.
11:35 (IST) Apr 17
PM Modi lauds Harivansh’s leadership
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha on Harivansh Narayan Singh elected unopposed as the Dy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, PM Narendra Modi says, "Being elected as Deputy Chairman for the third consecutive term is a testament to the deep trust this House has in you, the benefits the House has received from your experience over the past period, and your efforts to take everyone along... We have all seen the strength of the House grow even more effective under Harivansh's leadership. Not only does he conduct the proceedings of the House, but he also uses his past experiences to enrich the House with great precision... I am confident that the Deputy Chairman's new term will proceed with the same spirit, balance, and dedication. Through the efforts of all of us, the dignity of the House will reach new heights."
11:29 (IST) Apr 17
'Harivansh’s experience, intuitive leadership strengthened Rajya Sabha': PM Modi
"This is a tribute to experience and an intuitive working style, and also an acknowledgement of an intuitive working style," said the Prime Minister in the upper house.
"We have all witnessed the strength of the House becoming even more effective under Harivansh ji's leadership, and I can say that not only does he conduct the proceedings of the House, but he also very precisely utilises the experiences from his past life to enrich the House," he added.
"We have all witnessed the strength of the House becoming even more effective under Harivansh ji's leadership, and I can say that not only does he conduct the proceedings of the House, but he also very precisely utilises the experiences from his past life to enrich the House," he added.
11:25 (IST) Apr 17
House's deep trust on you: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha on Harivansh's appoinment as Rajya Sabha duputy chair
"On behalf of the House, I congratulate Harivansh Narayan Singh for being elected as the Deputy Chairman for the third time. This shows that House' deep trust on you," he said.
11:22 (IST) Apr 17
PM Modi congratulates Harivansh on being elected Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman for third term
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Harivansh on his election as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third term. Harivansh was elected unopposed to the post, continuing his tenure in the Upper House.
11:19 (IST) Apr 17
Parliament special session: PM Modi speaks in Rajya Sabha
11:16 (IST) Apr 17
Parliament session: DMK MPs wear black in LS to protest delimitation; PM Modi present in RS
11:14 (IST) Apr 17
'Hope you (govt) will give apt importance to opposition': Kharge in RS
11:13 (IST) Apr 17
Harivansh elected Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha unopposed
11:11 (IST) Apr 17
Parliament special session day 2: Congress president Kharge speaks in RS, PM Modi present
11:09 (IST) Apr 17
Parliament special session day 2: Congress president Kharge addresses Rajya Sabha, PM Modi in attendance
11:05 (IST) Apr 17
Parliament special session Day 2: Lok Sabha to vote on Delimitation Bill, women's quota today
Lok Sabha is set to vote on two key bills, including the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, as part of ongoing discussions on women’s reservation.
The development comes even as the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 came into force on Thursday after a government notification dated April 16, 2026. Officials said the move was a technical step to operationalise the proposed constitutional amendment under discussion in Parliament.
While the law provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, officials clarified that it cannot be implemented in the current House and will require a delimitation exercise based on the next Census.
The 2023 Act, passed as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, envisages implementation of the quota after delimitation, with the broader framework under discussion in Parliament currently aimed at enabling rollout by 2029.
The development comes even as the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 came into force on Thursday after a government notification dated April 16, 2026. Officials said the move was a technical step to operationalise the proposed constitutional amendment under discussion in Parliament.
While the law provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, officials clarified that it cannot be implemented in the current House and will require a delimitation exercise based on the next Census.
The 2023 Act, passed as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, envisages implementation of the quota after delimitation, with the broader framework under discussion in Parliament currently aimed at enabling rollout by 2029.
10:52 (IST) Apr 17
Owaisi warns opposition voice may shrink
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said, "if these bills become law, the opposition's voice will be reduced to nothing in this House."
10:30 (IST) Apr 17
Opposition flags delimitation concerns linked to bill
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader KC Venugopal said the government intends to use the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill to push delimitation.
10:06 (IST) Apr 17
Opposition seeks withdrawal, calls for wider consultation
The Congress had urged the government to withdraw the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 in its current form and convene an all-party meeting to build consensus.
09:45 (IST) Apr 17
INDIA bloc MPs to meet ahead of debate on women’s reservation, delimitation bills
INDIA bloc MPs are set to meet at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s Parliament chamber at 10 am to finalise their floor strategy ahead of discussions on the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026 and related legislation.
The Lok Sabha is scheduled to continue discussion and voting on the women’s reservation Bill, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, which proposes an increase and redrawing of Lok Sabha constituencies up to 850.
On Thursday, the House held a 12-hour debate on amendments to the women’s reservation Bill that remove the requirement of implementation only after a census. The Bills were introduced after a division vote of 251 in favour and 185 against.
During the debate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah participated, along with key opposition leaders including Akhilesh Yadav, Asaduddin Owaisi, and KC Venugopal. The Opposition has raised concerns that delimitation linked to the Bill could reduce southern states’ representation.
The Lok Sabha is scheduled to continue discussion and voting on the women’s reservation Bill, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, along with the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and the Delimitation Bill, 2026, which proposes an increase and redrawing of Lok Sabha constituencies up to 850.
On Thursday, the House held a 12-hour debate on amendments to the women’s reservation Bill that remove the requirement of implementation only after a census. The Bills were introduced after a division vote of 251 in favour and 185 against.
During the debate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah participated, along with key opposition leaders including Akhilesh Yadav, Asaduddin Owaisi, and KC Venugopal. The Opposition has raised concerns that delimitation linked to the Bill could reduce southern states’ representation.
09:40 (IST) Apr 17
Delimitation bill: Since 1951, Hindi belt’s Lok Sabha share has fallen more than South's
Amid recurring concerns that northern states could gain at the expense of the South in a future Lok Sabha expansion, the historical record paints a more nuanced picture. Between 1951 and 1977, when seats were periodically redistributed after Census exercises, both the Hindi heartland and southern states saw their share of Lok Sabha seats decline. However, the decline was steeper for the Hindi belt, which lost 3.1 percentage points, compared to a 1.2 percentage point fall for the South.
Read full story09:27 (IST) Apr 17
Marathon debate held on women’s reservation bill
The Lok Sabha held a 12-hour-long session on day 1 of the special session to discuss amendments to the women’s reservation bill, including provisions that remove the requirement of implementing it only after the census is conducted.
09:11 (IST) Apr 17
Centre likely to push passage of key bills in Lok Sabha
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and Home Minister Amit Shah are expected to move motions for the passage of amendments to the women’s reservation bill and the Delimitation Bill in the Lok Sabha.
08:44 (IST) Apr 17
Lok Sabha to take up women’s reservation, delimitation bills
Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions on the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. The House will also take up the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending the provision to Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, along with the Delimitation Bill, 2026.
According to the list of business, all three bills will be discussed together.
According to the list of business, all three bills will be discussed together.
08:19 (IST) Apr 17
PM's Modi's message for women as discussion on reservation set to continue today
"Our feminine power is the hallmark of a strong India. The mothers, sisters, and daughters of the nation are enhancing the pride of Bharatvarsha in every field today through their unwavering resolve, devotion, and spirit of service," he said on X.
19:54 (IST) Apr 16
No objection to women’s quota, but why link it to delimitation: Shashi Tharoor
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, speaking during the Parliament’s special session on the women’s reservation bill, said the opposition fully supports immediate implementation of the quota but questioned its linkage with delimitation.
He argued that delimitation involves complex issues requiring detailed discussion and cannot be rushed through in a matter of days. Tharoor also flagged concerns raised by southern states and said the government could have implemented the women’s reservation earlier in 2023 or should do so now, assuring the Congress party’s support for the bill.
Tharoor said, "We have no problem with women's reservation, but why are you including delimitation in it? There are many issues and questions regarding delimitation. A long discussion is needed, but the government is not ready to discuss it. Our South Indian states have many questions. If the government only wants women's reservation, why didn't it happen in 2023? We are still ready for it, but why are you doing this delimitation? This will not be political demonetization. This is a matter of the unity of our country. Talk to South India, Northeast, Goa, and other smaller states."
He argued that delimitation involves complex issues requiring detailed discussion and cannot be rushed through in a matter of days. Tharoor also flagged concerns raised by southern states and said the government could have implemented the women’s reservation earlier in 2023 or should do so now, assuring the Congress party’s support for the bill.
Tharoor said, "We have no problem with women's reservation, but why are you including delimitation in it? There are many issues and questions regarding delimitation. A long discussion is needed, but the government is not ready to discuss it. Our South Indian states have many questions. If the government only wants women's reservation, why didn't it happen in 2023? We are still ready for it, but why are you doing this delimitation? This will not be political demonetization. This is a matter of the unity of our country. Talk to South India, Northeast, Goa, and other smaller states."
19:46 (IST) Apr 16
'We’ve retained your delimitation framework': Amit Shah addresses opposition's manipulation claims
Union home minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha during the discussion on women’s reservation and delimitation, pushed back against opposition concerns over the composition of the delimitation commission.
Responding to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Shah said the government has not altered the existing framework and has instead replicated the earlier Delimitation Commission Act. He added that if there were any concerns about manipulation, they should be directed at the original framework, asserting that the current government has made no such changes.
Amit Shah said, "There was mention of the Delimitation Commission, saying that you will put your people in the Delimitation Commission and they will do this and that. I want to tell Priyanka Gandhi that we have not made any changes to the Delimitation Commission. We have replicated your Delimitation Commission Act. If you have tampered with it, I can say that we will not do so."
Responding to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Shah said the government has not altered the existing framework and has instead replicated the earlier Delimitation Commission Act. He added that if there were any concerns about manipulation, they should be directed at the original framework, asserting that the current government has made no such changes.
Amit Shah said, "There was mention of the Delimitation Commission, saying that you will put your people in the Delimitation Commission and they will do this and that. I want to tell Priyanka Gandhi that we have not made any changes to the Delimitation Commission. We have replicated your Delimitation Commission Act. If you have tampered with it, I can say that we will not do so."
18:59 (IST) Apr 16
If we listen to the entire narrative created for the South, then out of the 543 seats created by you, 129 MPs currently sit in this House, which is approximately 23.76%. In the new House, 195 MPs will be sitting here, and their power will be 23.97%"
Union home minister Amit Shah
18:59 (IST) Apr 16
Telangana has 17 seats, which is 3.13 per cent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will increase from 17 to 26, which will be 3.18 per cent. Tamil Nadu has 49 seats, which is 7.18 per cent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will be 59, and their percentage in the new House of 816 will be 7.23 per cent. Tamil Nadu will also suffer no loss. Kerala has 20 seats, which is 3.68 per cent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will be 30, and their percentage in the new House will be 3.67 per cent.
Union minister Amit Shah on power disparity concerns of the southern states
18:57 (IST) Apr 16
Karnataka has 28 seats, and 5.15 percent of the 543 seats in the House. After the passage of the bill, the number of Karnataka MPs will increase from 28 to 42, and the percentage in the Lok Sabha will increase to 5.44. Karnataka will not suffer any loss at all. Andhra Pradesh has 25 seats, which is 4.60 percent. After the passage of the bill, the number of MPs will increase from 25 to 38. which will be 4.65 per cent.
Union home minister Amit Shah on power disparity concerns of southern states
18:27 (IST) Apr 16
'No loss to southern states from delimitation': Amit Shah counters opposition claims
Union home minister Amit Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha special session, rejected concerns that the proposed constitutional amendment and related delimitation measures would reduce the representation of southern states.
He said a “false narrative” was being created to suggest that states in the south would face significant losses. Citing Karnataka as an example, Shah said its Lok Sabha seats would rise from 28 to 42 after the changes, while its overall share would remain nearly unchanged.
In a House expanded to 816 members, Karnataka’s representation would be around 5.14 per cent, compared to about 5.15 per cent currently, indicating no real loss, he added.
"A narrative is being created and confusion is being spread that these three bills, the Constitutional Amendment Bill and the two related laws on delimitation and changes in election procedures, will reduce the representation of southern states in the Lok Sabha and cause them significant loss...The bill before the House is now the property of the House. Based on its practical interpretation, I would like to clarify a few points. In Karnataka, out of the current strength of 543 seats in the Lok Sabha, there are 28 seats, which is about 5.15 per cent of the total representation. After the passage of this bill and the Constitutional Amendment, Karnataka’s seats will increase from 28 to 42. In a House of 816 members, its share will be around 5.14 per cent. So, there will be no real loss to Karnataka," Shah said.
He said a “false narrative” was being created to suggest that states in the south would face significant losses. Citing Karnataka as an example, Shah said its Lok Sabha seats would rise from 28 to 42 after the changes, while its overall share would remain nearly unchanged.
In a House expanded to 816 members, Karnataka’s representation would be around 5.14 per cent, compared to about 5.15 per cent currently, indicating no real loss, he added.
"A narrative is being created and confusion is being spread that these three bills, the Constitutional Amendment Bill and the two related laws on delimitation and changes in election procedures, will reduce the representation of southern states in the Lok Sabha and cause them significant loss...The bill before the House is now the property of the House. Based on its practical interpretation, I would like to clarify a few points. In Karnataka, out of the current strength of 543 seats in the Lok Sabha, there are 28 seats, which is about 5.15 per cent of the total representation. After the passage of this bill and the Constitutional Amendment, Karnataka’s seats will increase from 28 to 42. In a House of 816 members, its share will be around 5.14 per cent. So, there will be no real loss to Karnataka," Shah said.
18:19 (IST) Apr 16
Priyanka Gandhi flags OBC concerns in women’s quota debate; accuses PM of sidestepping issue
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, speaking in the Lok Sabha, criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for downplaying concerns related to OBC representation in the women’s reservation framework.
She said the Prime Minister’s remark that the issue could be addressed later effectively reduced a significant social demand to a “technical issue”. Stressing that the OBC community represents a large section of society with a long history of struggle, Priyanka Gandhi said their demand for a fair share cannot be brushed aside and must be addressed with seriousness.
She said, "Today, the Prime Minister casually said that the concerns of certain sections would be addressed later. Which sections is he referring to? He was talking about the OBC community, saying it can be looked into later. This should not be taken lightly...This represents a large section of society, their hard work and their long struggle. By calling it a ‘technical issue’, he has tried to sidestep the matter. We are raising their demands and highlighting their needs, saying they too deserve their rightful share. But the Prime Minister has reduced it to a technical issue."
She said the Prime Minister’s remark that the issue could be addressed later effectively reduced a significant social demand to a “technical issue”. Stressing that the OBC community represents a large section of society with a long history of struggle, Priyanka Gandhi said their demand for a fair share cannot be brushed aside and must be addressed with seriousness.
She said, "Today, the Prime Minister casually said that the concerns of certain sections would be addressed later. Which sections is he referring to? He was talking about the OBC community, saying it can be looked into later. This should not be taken lightly...This represents a large section of society, their hard work and their long struggle. By calling it a ‘technical issue’, he has tried to sidestep the matter. We are raising their demands and highlighting their needs, saying they too deserve their rightful share. But the Prime Minister has reduced it to a technical issue."
18:13 (IST) Apr 16
Women’s rights rooted in Congress's legacy, traces Priyanka Gandhi, cites Nehru era
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also outlined the historical roots of women’s political rights in India, saying the foundation was laid during the freedom movement. She referred to Motilal Nehru’s 1928 report that listed fundamental rights and the 1931 Karachi session of the Congress, chaired by Sardar Patel, where women’s equal rights were formally recognised. She added that the principle of “one vote, one citizen, one value” was embedded early in India’s political framework, calling women’s reservation a globally significant and progressive step.
She said, "My colleagues in the ruling party may not like this, but the historical background is that it was also initiated by a man named Nehru. But don't worry, this is not the Nehru you so shy away from. His father, Motilal Nehru, prepared a report in 1928 and presented it to the Congress Party's Working Committee. In it, he listed 19 fundamental rights. In 1931, the Congress session was held in Karachi under the chairmanship of Sardar Patel."
She said, "My colleagues in the ruling party may not like this, but the historical background is that it was also initiated by a man named Nehru. But don't worry, this is not the Nehru you so shy away from. His father, Motilal Nehru, prepared a report in 1928 and presented it to the Congress Party's Working Committee. In it, he listed 19 fundamental rights. In 1931, the Congress session was held in Karachi under the chairmanship of Sardar Patel."
18:11 (IST) Apr 16
Congress brought local body quotas first, says Priyanka Gandhi in Lok Sabha
Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on women’s reservation and delimitation, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said the provision for 33 per cent reservation in panchayats and municipalities was first introduced by a Congress government under the leadership of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. She said the move marked a significant step in advancing women’s political participation at the grassroots level.
She said, "The provision of 33 per cent reservation in panchayats and municipalities was first introduced in the House by the Indian National Congress government under the leadership of the late Rajiv Gandhi..."
She said, "The provision of 33 per cent reservation in panchayats and municipalities was first introduced in the House by the Indian National Congress government under the leadership of the late Rajiv Gandhi..."
18:07 (IST) Apr 16
Priyanka Gandhi’s swipe at PM: Even Chanakya would be surprised
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took a sharp dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the special session on the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, delivering a backhanded compliment.
She remarked that if Chanakya were alive today, he would still be surprised, in an apparent reference to the government’s political handling of the women’s reservation bill and its messaging around it.
She remarked that if Chanakya were alive today, he would still be surprised, in an apparent reference to the government’s political handling of the women’s reservation bill and its messaging around it.
18:02 (IST) Apr 16
'Why delay women’s quota till delimitation': Priyanka Gandhi challenges PM’s ‘no fear’ claim
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, speaking during the special session on the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, questioned the Centre’s decision to link the implementation of the women’s reservation law to a future delimitation exercise.
She asked why the government cannot roll out the quota immediately without increasing the number of seats. Challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that no one fears losing their position, Priyanka Gandhi said if that were true, there should be no hesitation in implementing the reservation without waiting for delimitation.
She reiterated that the delay raises concerns over the government’s intent despite its public support for the bill.
She said, "Why was 33 per cent reservation for women not implemented within the existing 543 Lok Sabha constituencies? If there is no fear of losing positions, then some people should be willing to give up their seats. Within this framework itself, reservation for SC/ST women could be ensured at 33 per cent, and proper reservation for OBCs could also be implemented. This could be done today, everything could be accomplished immediately."
She asked why the government cannot roll out the quota immediately without increasing the number of seats. Challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that no one fears losing their position, Priyanka Gandhi said if that were true, there should be no hesitation in implementing the reservation without waiting for delimitation.
She reiterated that the delay raises concerns over the government’s intent despite its public support for the bill.
She said, "Why was 33 per cent reservation for women not implemented within the existing 543 Lok Sabha constituencies? If there is no fear of losing positions, then some people should be willing to give up their seats. Within this framework itself, reservation for SC/ST women could be ensured at 33 per cent, and proper reservation for OBCs could also be implemented. This could be done today, everything could be accomplished immediately."
17:53 (IST) Apr 16
'PM gave incomplete picture on women’s quota bill': Priyanka Gandhi cites Rahul’s earlier push
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi, speaking during Parliament's special session on Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of presenting an incomplete account of the legislation in his address to Parliament.
She said the Prime Minister spoke as if the BJP had long championed the bill, even while claiming he did not seek credit for it. Priyanka Gandhi also pointed out that Rahul Gandhi had earlier written to the Prime Minister in 2019, urging the implementation of the women’s reservation bill, highlighting the Congress party’s prior push on the issue.
She said the Prime Minister spoke as if the BJP had long championed the bill, even while claiming he did not seek credit for it. Priyanka Gandhi also pointed out that Rahul Gandhi had earlier written to the Prime Minister in 2019, urging the implementation of the women’s reservation bill, highlighting the Congress party’s prior push on the issue.
17:34 (IST) Apr 16
'Why are they bringing it right now?': Akhilesh Yadav asks Centre
On PM Modi's address on the Women's Reservation Bill, Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav said, "This Bill is being brought without population census or including the backward classes. This is being brought for appeasement. We are in favour of this Bill, but why are they bringing it right now? And which census is being considered?... Every party supports this, but what about the new map of the constituencies that the 'Khufiya' people made? This question is about delimitation, how will the new constituencies be made..."
17:24 (IST) Apr 16
No state, be it north or south will be discriminated against in delimitation exercise: PM Modi in Lok Sabha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that no state -- big or small, north or south, east or west -- will be discriminated against in the delimitation of constituencies linked with the implementation of women quota law and warned that those who oppose this reform will not be forgiven by the women of the country.
16:57 (IST) Apr 16
'Ready to print an advertisement to thank all of you': PM Modi to Oppn on women’s reservation bill
"Iska agar virodh karenge toh rajnitik laabh mujhe hoga. Lekin saath chalenge toh kisi ko bhi nahi hoga... Humey credit nahi chahiye... As soon as this gets passed, I am ready to print an advertisement and thank all of you. I will get everyone's photos printed too. You care about getting credit? Take the credit... I am ready to give you a blank cheque of credit..." says Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he speaks in Lok Sabha on women's reservation and delimitation
16:31 (IST) Apr 16
'This is our opportunity to be free from sin,' says PM Modi
Speaking in Lok Sabha on women's reservation and delimitation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "I would also like to tell all the members of this House that we should not live in any illusion or arrogance. I am using the word 'we' I am not speaking in terms of 'I’ and ‘you'. We should not live under the illusion that we are giving something to the women power of the country. It is their right and we have stopped it for several decades and today, this is our opportunity to be free from sin..."
16:11 (IST) Apr 16
Uddhav Thackeray demands immediate implementation of 2023 Act for women's reservation
Immediately implement 2023 Act that gives 33 pc reservation to women in Lok Sabha, assemblies: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. (PTI)
16:05 (IST) Apr 16
I would just like to say that this should not be weighed on the scale of politics. Whenever we move to take a decision, those who carry responsibility for such a large parts of the country also have a right to be present here. We should not stop them. Secondly, regarding numbers, there has long been a discussion that their count should not be reduced. If it is increased, the process will move faster. That is why the proposal has come to increase it by 33 per cent so that no one feels their rights are being taken away. It will add new and additional strength. The structure of the House has already been planned accordingly, and space has been created. I would also like to say in a lighter vein that everyone has their own political reasons, and the fear of defeat can be quite striking. But whenever something good happens, there is a tradition of putting a 'kala teeka' to protect it from evil. I thank you for putting that ‘kala teeka’.
Prime MInister Narendra Modi
15:54 (IST) Apr 16
'2,700 block Panchayats led by women': PM Modi
"Around 6,700 block Panchayats exist, and nearly 2,700 of them are led by women. Today, many of our sisters are also serving as heads of urban local bodies. I believe that the progress the country is making today has a significant contribution from them, and this must be acknowledged," PM Modi said.
"When this experience becomes part of the House, it will multiply our strength many times," he added.
"When this experience becomes part of the House, it will multiply our strength many times," he added.
15:49 (IST) Apr 16
I give you a blank cheque for claiming credit on passage of women quota bill: PM Modi in Lok Sabha
15:49 (IST) Apr 16
'Women have not forgotten those who have stood against their rights': PM Modi seeks unanimous support for Women's Reservation Amendment Bill
Strongly pitching for the implementation of the women's reservation bill from the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said MPs must not let this important opportunity slip away and noted that women have not forgotten those who have stood against their rights.
Participating in the debate on the Constitution Amendment Bill for early implementation of the women's reservation bill, PM Modi said there are some important moments in the life of a country and the mindset of the society and the capability of the leadership can capture that moment and turn it into an asset for the nation.
"Discussion on this important bill began this morning. Many members have raised various issues, and we will provide detailed and accurate information to the House on those matters. That is why I do not wish to go into those specifics. There are some important moments in the life of a country. At such a time, the mindset of the society and the capability of the leadership capture that moment and turn it into an asset for the nation, creating a strong legacy. In the history of India's parliamentary democracy, these are such moments," he said.
"The need was that when this idea was first conceived 25-30 years ago, and the need was felt, we should have implemented it, and today we have brought it to a mature stage. According to the need, it is also improved from time to time, and this is the beauty of democracy. Ours is the Mother of Democracy. Our democracy has been a development journey for thousands of years, and all of us in this House have the auspicious opportunity to add a new dimension to this development journey," he added.
Participating in the debate on the Constitution Amendment Bill for early implementation of the women's reservation bill, PM Modi said there are some important moments in the life of a country and the mindset of the society and the capability of the leadership can capture that moment and turn it into an asset for the nation.
"Discussion on this important bill began this morning. Many members have raised various issues, and we will provide detailed and accurate information to the House on those matters. That is why I do not wish to go into those specifics. There are some important moments in the life of a country. At such a time, the mindset of the society and the capability of the leadership capture that moment and turn it into an asset for the nation, creating a strong legacy. In the history of India's parliamentary democracy, these are such moments," he said.
"The need was that when this idea was first conceived 25-30 years ago, and the need was felt, we should have implemented it, and today we have brought it to a mature stage. According to the need, it is also improved from time to time, and this is the beauty of democracy. Ours is the Mother of Democracy. Our democracy has been a development journey for thousands of years, and all of us in this House have the auspicious opportunity to add a new dimension to this development journey," he added.
15:47 (IST) Apr 16
'Today is the opportunity seek liberation from the sin': PM Modi
Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi said that the MPs must not think that they are giving something to the women of the country.
"It is her right," PM Modi said. "We have withheld it for several decades. Today is the opportunity to atone for it and seek liberation from that sin," he added.
"It is her right," PM Modi said. "We have withheld it for several decades. Today is the opportunity to atone for it and seek liberation from that sin," he added.
15:35 (IST) Apr 16
Today I have come to appeal to you not to weigh this on the scales of politics; this is a decision in the national interest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
15:26 (IST) Apr 16
Those opposing women’s reservation were not forgiven by voters: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "Ever since the discussion on women's reservation took place in our country, and every time elections have come around thereafter, any individual who has opposed this right of women has not been forgiven by them," PM Modi said.
"In the 2024 elections, this did not happen, and it did not happen for the reason that everyone passed it unanimously then, so the matter simply did not arise," he added.
"In the 2024 elections, this did not happen, and it did not happen for the reason that everyone passed it unanimously then, so the matter simply did not arise," he added.
15:23 (IST) Apr 16
'If we all come together, history is witness, it won’t go in favour of any one political side': PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "If we all come together, history is witness, it won’t go in favour of any one political side. It will go in favour of the country’s democracy, in favour of the collective decision-making power of the nation, and we shall all be deserving of that glory."
"Neither the Treasury Bench will be deserving of it, nor will Modi be deserving of it. Therefore, anyone who smells politics in this should take a look at their own outcomes from the past 30 years. Their benefit lies in this too. They will be saved from whatever damage is being done. Therefore, there is no need to give it a political colour."
"Neither the Treasury Bench will be deserving of it, nor will Modi be deserving of it. Therefore, anyone who smells politics in this should take a look at their own outcomes from the past 30 years. Their benefit lies in this too. They will be saved from whatever damage is being done. Therefore, there is no need to give it a political colour."
15:19 (IST) Apr 16
Those who opposed giving this right to women have not been forgiven by the women of this country: PM Modi
PM Modi said, "Those who opposed giving this right to women have not been forgiven by the women of this country. They have faced the consequences."
"If we all move forward together, this decision will not go in favour of any one political party, but in favour of the country’s democracy," he added.
"If we all move forward together, this decision will not go in favour of any one political party, but in favour of the country’s democracy," he added.
33 More Updates
In the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Harivansh Narayan Singh on being elected unopposed as Deputy Chairman for a third consecutive term. Modi said the election reflected the House’s “deep trust” in Harivansh and praised his “intuitive leadership,” noting that the Upper House had become more effective under his conduct. He added that Harivansh not only presides over proceedings but also draws on his experience to enrich debates, expressing confidence in continued balance and dedication in his new term.
Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions and voting on key constitutional and related bills on Day 2 of the Parliament session, including the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Bills form part of the government’s framework to operationalise 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures.
The Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 was notified to come into force from April 16, 2026, with officials describing it as a technical step required for implementation of the proposed constitutional amendment. They clarified that the law cannot be implemented in the current House and is linked to delimitation after the next Census.
Meanwhile, political tensions continued as opposition members raised concerns over delimitation and federal balance.
Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions and voting on key constitutional and related bills on Day 2 of the Parliament session, including the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Bills form part of the government’s framework to operationalise 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures.
The Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 was notified to come into force from April 16, 2026, with officials describing it as a technical step required for implementation of the proposed constitutional amendment. They clarified that the law cannot be implemented in the current House and is linked to delimitation after the next Census.
Meanwhile, political tensions continued as opposition members raised concerns over delimitation and federal balance.
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