Itanagar, Apr 18: Senior BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Saturday termed the non-passage of the Constitution Amendment Bill, aimed at implementing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, in the Lok Sabha as a “deeply disappointing moment” for Indian democracy.
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, aimed to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, failed to get the two-third majority in the Lower House on Friday, with 298 MPs voting in its favour and 230 voting against.
In a statement, Mein said the development was not merely the rejection of a legislative proposal but a setback to the hopes and aspirations of millions of women seeking greater empowerment and representation in governance. He said that at a time when the nation speaks of women as a source of strength, such actions hinder their progress and participation in decision-making.
Highlighting public sentiment, the Deputy Chief Minister noted that the issue has triggered widespread concern, with women across the country expressing disappointment. He stressed that the delay directly impacts their rightful participation in decision-making spaces and called for greater accountability in safeguarding their rights.
Urging leaders to rise above political differences, Mein emphasized the need to uphold the dignity and aspirations of women and ensure their voices are not sidelined in shaping the nation’s future.
“We must rise above political differences and stand firmly for the dignity, rights, and aspirations of every woman. The path forward must ensure that their voice is not sidelined, and their role in shaping our democracy is strengthened with conviction and purpose,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Arunachal Pradesh unit also criticized the Opposition, accusing it of failing to support a measure intended to provide representation to “half the population.”
In a statement, the party alleged that political considerations prevented the Opposition from backing the legislation, and reiterated its commitment to women’s empowerment.
The BJP further claimed that issues related to women’s welfare were neglected during the United Progressive Alliance regime and accused Opposition parties of continuing a similar approach.