Recent Government Push
Women Reservation in Legislatures Gains Momentum: The Prime Minister emphasized that reservation for women in legislative bodies is an urgent necessity. This statement followed the Union Cabinet’s approval of a draft amendment bill to implement the Women’s Reservation Act earlier than expected.
The government plans to bring the law into effect for the 2029 General Elections. A special session of Parliament is also expected to discuss and accelerate the process.
Static GK fact: The Parliament of India consists of the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and the President.
Proposal for Lok Sabha Expansion
A key proposal includes increasing the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to 816 seats. This expansion is linked to a fresh delimitation exercise, which redraws constituency boundaries based on population.
Additionally, a vertical reservation within SC/ST quotas for women is being considered. This ensures inclusive representation across marginalized communities.
Static GK Tip: Delimitation is carried out by a Delimitation Commission, whose decisions have the force of law and cannot be challenged in court.
Background of the Act
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, enacted in 2023, is officially known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act. It mandates one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.
However, its implementation was originally tied to the first Census conducted after 2023 and a subsequent delimitation process. This created concerns about delays.
Change in Implementation Strategy
To avoid waiting for the 2027 Census, the government is considering using the 2011 Census data for delimitation. This move aims to ensure faster rollout of reservations.
This shift reflects a strategic decision to maintain political momentum and avoid administrative delays. It also signals strong political will toward gender-inclusive governance.
Static GK fact: The Census of India is conducted every 10 years under the Census Act, 1948.
Key Provisions of the Act
The Act provides 33% reservation for women in:
- Lok Sabha
- State Legislative Assemblies
- Legislative Assembly of Delhi
It also extends to seats already reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), ensuring broader inclusivity.
Another important feature is the rotation of reserved seats after each delimitation. This ensures that reservation benefits are distributed across different constituencies over time.
Constitutional Amendments Introduced
The Act inserts new constitutional provisions to formalize reservations:
- Article 330A for Lok Sabha
- Article 332A for State Assemblies
- Amendment to Article 239AA for Delhi Assembly
These provisions strengthen the constitutional framework for women’s political participation.
Significance and Way Forward
Women currently hold a relatively low share in legislative bodies in India. This reform aims to improve gender balance in policymaking and strengthen democracy.
Timely implementation before the 2029 elections could mark a historic shift in Indian politics. It may also inspire greater participation of women in governance and leadership roles.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Women Reservation in Legislatures Gains Momentum:
| Topic | Detail |
| Act Name | Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam |
| Amendment | Constitution 106th Amendment Act 2023 |
| Reservation | One-third seats for women |
| Coverage | Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, Delhi Assembly |
| Key Articles | 330A, 332A, 239AA |
| Implementation Target | 2029 General Elections |
| Lok Sabha Strength Proposal | Increase from 543 to 816 |
| Delimitation Basis | Proposed use of 2011 Census |
| Special Feature | Rotation of reserved seats |
| Inclusion | Applies to SC and ST reserved seats |
