Women’s reservation: A watershed development

The passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Parliament is a landmark moment for gender equality and women’s empowerment. The bill,  seeking to reserve one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and the state legislative assemblies for women, is significant for several reasons. Even as Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had introduced the Constitution Amendment Bill way back in 1989 to provide one-third reservation for women in rural and urban local bodies, unfortunately, the bill failed to get passed in the Rajya Sabha. The next big step came up in 1992 when the Prime Minister P.V.Narasimha Rao government succeeded in bringing about the Constitution (73rd and 74th Amendment) Acts, which mandated the reservation of one-third of seats for women in panchayats and urban local bodies.

The latest law is important because women make up nearly half of India’s population, but they are currently underrepresented in political leadership positions. Both the central government and opposition parties deserve appreciation for this significant step. This watershed development will help to give women a greater voice in the decision-making processes of the country and moderate the often male-driven political and economic discourses. It will also help break down deep rooted gender stereotypes in the country that have inhibited social integration and cohesion. The contention being voiced that the bill needs to be implemented sooner rather than after the census and delimitation, however, requires consideration. The delay in implementing the bill may not send an encouraging message to women and to the country as a whole. The bill has been pending for over two decades. It is time to take action and implement it.

Studies have shown that women-led governments are more transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people. So, if implemented earlier, it will help to improve the quality of governance. Importantly, women’s early participation is likely to help to reduce corruption. It is a globally recognised fact that women are less likely to be involved in corruption than men. Women are more likely to invest in social welfare programs and education, which can help to reduce poverty and inequality. Women’s greater participation in the political system of the country will help to promote peace and development. Today, the country needs a political narrative that is inclusive of all its diversity, is respectful and representative of all of them, something that can strongly contribute to strengthening national cohesion and integration.