Ashok Gehlot Questions Centre's Stance on Women's Reservation and Delimitation
Synopsis
In a bold critique, Ashok Gehlot challenges PM Modi's confidence in women's reservation and the delimitation process, questioning the ethical implications and timing of the government's actions during elections.
Key Takeaways
Ashok Gehlot questions PM Narendra Modi on women's reservation.
Criticism of the delimitation process based on the 2011 Census .
Allegations of violating the Model Code of Conduct .
Calls for fresh elections if the government is confident.
Increased political tension regarding OBC rights.
Jaipur, April 18 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has voiced his concerns regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent speech, questioning the government's stance on women’s reservation, delimitation, and the timing of these remarks amidst the ongoing elections.
In response to the Prime Minister’s statement that women nationwide would “teach a lesson” to the Congress and other opposition parties, Gehlot, via his X account, challenged the government’s assertion of confidence.
He stated, “If the Prime Minister possesses such confidence, he ought to dissolve the Lok Sabha and initiate fresh elections on this very matter to acquire a new mandate from the populace.”
Gehlot further criticized the delimitation initiative, claiming that implementing it based on the 2011 Census would be inequitable, particularly affecting Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
He emphasized that proceeding with delimitation based on the 2011 Census rather than waiting for the 2026 caste census undermines the rights of OBC women. Once the caste census is executed, the true demographic of OBCs will be revealed, allowing for appropriate and fair reservation.
Gehlot vehemently criticized the timing of Modi’s address, alleging that such speeches during elections in states like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu breach the Model Code of Conduct.
He remarked, “Making such a speech in the midst of elections constitutes a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Nevertheless, no actions will be taken, as the Election Commission has essentially transformed into the Bharatiya Janata Party's election department.”
Gehlot’s comments have injected a new political layer into the current national discourse on women’s reservation, caste census, and delimitation, with Congress leadership amplifying their critique of the Centre.
Previously, Ashok Gehlot asserted that the government intends to execute delimitation across the nation in a haphazard manner. The entire opposition has expressed concerns regarding this process, similar to how it was handled in states like Assam; they aimed to replicate this model nationwide, but their intentions have now been laid bare.
Point of View
Ashok Gehlot's remarks highlight critical concerns regarding the government's approach to women's reservation and the delimitation process, emphasizing the need for fairness and integrity in electoral practices.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ashok Gehlot criticize regarding women's reservation?
Gehlot questioned the government's confidence in women's reservation and suggested that if the Prime Minister is assured, he should call for fresh elections on this issue.
Why is the delimitation process controversial?
Gehlot argues that conducting delimitation based on the 2011 Census is unjust, particularly affecting Other Backward Classes, and emphasizes the need to wait for the 2026 caste census.
What is the 'Model Code of Conduct'?
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India to regulate political parties and candidates during elections to ensure free and fair elections.
How did Gehlot react to the timing of Modi's speech?
Gehlot criticized the delivery of Modi's speech during elections, stating it violated the Model Code of Conduct and suggesting that the Election Commission has become biased toward the ruling party.
What impact do these comments have on the political landscape?
Gehlot's comments have intensified the ongoing national debate on women's reservation and caste census, prompting further scrutiny of the government's actions.
