New Delhi, Oct 27: – Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani, Announces Passage of Women Reservation Bill 2023 Empowering 2.8 Million Women in Electoral Arena
Speaking at a Public Affairs Forum of India (PAFI) event, Minister Irani highlighted the transformative step taken by the Narendra Modi-led government in passing the Women Reservation Bill 2023. The legislation opens avenues for 2.8 million women to actively participate in elections, showcasing the growing political prowess of women in the country.
Irani emphasized that women’s representation goes beyond Parliament, with 2.5 million women actively involved in panchayats, where the reservation stands at 33%, but the actual representation reaches 40%. This surge in participation aligns with a generational shift empowering women.
The minister detailed the bill’s comprehensive methodology for implementation and outlined the envisioned procedure 15 years from its enactment, distinguishing it from the earlier legislation that lacked a clear implementation framework.
Irani noted, “The first working legislation discussed in the new parliament building was the Women’s Reservation Bill, and it is a testament to how much we have grown as a nation.”
Calling on the business community, Irani urged them to play an active role in providing equal opportunities for women. She questioned the need for excessive government intervention in boardrooms and encouraged leaders to embrace diverse discussions that include women in various aspects.
“There is only so much that policy can do; our boardrooms and leadership need to walk the talk,” Irani emphasized, underscoring the importance of tangible actions for gender inclusivity.
