New Delhi, September 20, 2023: The Central Government has stirred a passionate debate in the Lok Sabha by introducing the Women’s Reservation Bill for discussion today. This pivotal moment in Indian politics has captured the nation’s attention, with Congress leader Sonia Gandhi slated to speak on the bill and challenge the policies of the ruling BJP government.
The Women’s Reservation Bill has long been a topic of contention, raising questions about its approval and its relation to the delayed Census and Delimitation processes. As the bill takes center stage, many are left wondering about the challenges it faces.
One of the primary concerns surrounding the bill is the postponement of the 2021 Census due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which remains incomplete to this day. Critics argue that without accurate census data, implementing women’s reservation becomes a complex task. Delimitation, a process to ensure equitable representation based on population growth, is slated to follow the completion of the Census.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has been a vocal critic of the government’s handling of these issues. He has accused the BJP of using the Women’s Reservation Bill as an election gimmick, potentially delaying its implementation until after the next Census. The pressing question remains: Can Census and Delimitation occur before the 2024 elections?
The timeline for the Census remains uncertain, with speculations of it happening in 2027 or 2028, though a more realistic estimate is the year 2031. Delimitation, a vital step in ensuring fair representation, will only take place once the Census concludes, further prolonging the enactment of the Women’s Reservation Bill.
As the bill is presented in Parliament and faces a seven-hour discussion, all eyes are on the opposition. Their stance and arguments will be crucial in determining the fate of the bill. Equally important is how the government addresses concerns related to Delimitation and Census.
The Women’s Reservation Bill has the potential to bring about significant changes in Indian politics, ensuring more substantial female representation. However, its realization hinges on the successful completion of the Census and Delimitation processes, both of which remain uncertain in terms of timing. As the nation watches, the future of this bill remains uncertain, yet its significance cannot be understated.
