BJP MP Rekha Sharma Critiques Congress and Samajwadi Party for Hindering Women's Reservation Bill
Synopsis
In a recent address, BJP MP Rekha Sharma condemned the Opposition parties, especially the Samajwadi Party, for obstructing the Women's Reservation Bill and criticized Congress for its inaction during the UPA regime. She stresses the importance of this Bill for women's representation in politics.
Key Takeaways
Rekha Sharma criticizes the Congress for failing to pass the Women's Reservation Bill .
The Bill aims to enhance women's representation in politics.
Sharma highlights internal opposition within the UPA as a major obstacle.
The Samajwadi Party is accused of raising diversionary issues.
Public pressure may force Congress to reconsider its stance on the legislation.
Panchkula (Haryana), April 6 (NationPress) Rajya Sabha MP and former Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), Rekha Sharma, on Monday launched a fierce critique against Opposition parties, notably the Samajwadi Party, accusing it of historically hindering the Women’s Reservation Bill and continuing to introduce "diversionary issues" to impede its advancement. She also criticized the Congress for its inability to pass the Bill introduced by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) during its tenure.
In comments to IANS, Sharma stated that the Congress-led UPA squandered a decade in power without securing the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, revealing what she termed a deficiency in political will and internal unity.
“The Congress governed for 10 years but failed to enact the Bill. The truth is that leaders within their own coalition opposed it,” Sharma remarked, pointing to resistance from figures like Mulayam Singh Yadav and Lalu Prasad Yadav.
She highlighted that although the Bill was approved by the Rajya Sabha on March 9, 2010, it did not pass the Lok Sabha due to political discord and a lack of collective support within the ruling coalition at that time.
Focusing on the current stance of the Opposition, Sharma asserted that the Congress is now hesitant and "politically cornered," implying that it will ultimately have to endorse the legislation due to public demand, especially from female voters.
“The Congress is weary after numerous electoral losses and lacks the assurance to adopt a clear position. When they approach the public, particularly women, what explanation will they provide for opposing such a vital Bill?” she queried.
Sharma also criticized Akhilesh Yadav for insisting on a caste census prior to the Women’s Reservation Bill, labeling it a deliberate tactic to shift the focus away from the issue.
“This is not a new strategy. Historically, under Mulayam Singh Yadav, similar maneuvers were employed to distract from the core issue. Even now, they are attempting to introduce such demands instead of advocating for women’s representation,” she emphasized.
According to Sharma, these actions reflect a broader trend where Opposition parties prioritize their political agendas over meaningful reforms.
“Their primary goal is to challenge the government. In doing so, they are also undermining the interests of the populace. The public is aware of this and will react accordingly,” she added.
Reaffirming her support for the Bill, Sharma commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking decisive measures to advance a long-overdue reform aimed at boosting women’s representation in legislative bodies.
She underscored that enhancing women’s participation in politics would fortify governance and address systemic gaps that have persisted for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Women's Reservation Bill?
The Women's Reservation Bill aims to reserve a certain percentage of seats for women in legislative bodies to enhance their representation in politics.
Why did the Congress fail to pass the Bill during the UPA regime?
According to Rekha Sharma, internal opposition from coalition leaders, lack of political will, and insufficient consensus hindered the Bill's passage during the UPA's tenure.
What are the implications of the Women's Reservation Bill?
The Bill is expected to strengthen governance by increasing women's participation in politics, addressing longstanding systemic gaps.
Who are the key political figures mentioned in the context of the Bill?
Key figures include Rekha Sharma, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and leaders like Mulayam Singh Yadav and Lalu Prasad Yadav.
What is the current political stance on the Women's Reservation Bill?
Rekha Sharma suggests that the Congress is currently reluctant but may be pressured to support the Bill due to public demand, especially from women voters.
