“We want 50% women’s reservation not 33%”: Cong women leaders’
A fresh debate over women’s political representation has emerged, with leaders from the Indian National Congress demanding 50% reservation for women, rejecting the 33% quota proposed under the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.
The demand was raised during a protest organised by the party’s women’s wing, where several leaders voiced dissatisfaction, calling the proposed quota inadequate. Alka Lamba said women should have equal representation in governance rather than a limited share.
Protesters argued that the current framework does not sufficiently address the persistent underrepresentation of women in Parliament and state assemblies. The situation briefly turned tense when a journalist questioned leaders about the timeline for implementing the law, particularly its linkage to delimitation. Party workers responded with slogan-shouting and attempted to push the reporter aside.
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam provides for 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, but its rollout is tied to a future delimitation exercise. This condition has drawn criticism from opposition leaders, who say it delays actual implementation.
The protest highlights an ongoing divide over the scope and timing of women’s reservation in India. While the government has described the law as a significant step forward, leaders from the Indian National Congress continue to push for a larger and more immediate framework to ensure greater representation of women in politics.
