BJP Bihar Chief: Women of India Rise After Women's Reservation Bill's Lok Sabha Rejection
Synopsis
In a fiery response to the Lok Sabha's dismissal of the Women's Reservation Bill, BJP Bihar Chief Sanjay Saraogi declares that Indian women are now empowered and ready to confront the Opposition. This contentious political landscape raises critical questions about women's rights and representation in India.
Key Takeaways
The Women's Reservation Bill was rejected in the Lok Sabha, failing to meet the required special majority.
Sanjay Saraogi emphasized that Indian women are now politically assertive and will hold the Opposition accountable.
JD(U) leaders expressed disappointment over the bill's defeat and the perceived anti-women stance of the INDIA bloc.
The Opposition criticized the linkage of the Bill to the 2011 Census expansion and delimitation.
The timing of the special session was contested, raising questions about political motivations.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) In the wake of the Lok Sabha's rejection of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, political tensions escalated on Saturday. BJP Bihar State President Sanjay Saraogi proclaimed that the women of India have now awakened, signaling that the Opposition will have to confront their resolve.
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill did not secure the necessary special majority, despite the government achieving a simple majority. After an extensive debate, the legislation garnered 278 votes in favor and 211 against, falling short of the constitutional requirements for passage.
This outcome has ignited a fierce political struggle, with the NDA accusing the INDIA bloc of obstructing a pivotal reform intended to enhance women's representation in legislative spheres.
In contrast, the Opposition has raised concerns regarding the women’s reservation Bill being linked to the expansion of Parliament based on the 2011 Census and the process of delimitation.
Speaking to IANS, Saraogi vehemently condemned the Opposition parties, stating, “Members of Congress, RJD, SP, and figures like Stalin are celebrating and distributing sweets. They will soon understand the repercussions of their actions. We will witness protests against them wherever they go. This monumental reservation Bill, which the Prime Minister aimed to pass, signifies that the women of India are not merely passive; they are forces to be reckoned with. They must prepare for opposition at every turn.”
JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan Prasad also expressed his discontent, remarking, “Women across the nation feel let down following the Bill's defeat. The reaction was one of shock and disbelief. Once again, the actions and mindset of Congress, TMC, DMK, and other INDIA bloc parties showcased an anti-women sentiment... They failed to initiate strong measures for women's empowerment.”
“This was their chance to rectify past mistakes, yet they squandered it. It's evident that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had urged everyone to unite in support of this Bill. A two-thirds majority was essential for the constitutional amendment, making the Opposition's cooperation crucial,” he added.
Meanwhile, Purnia MP Pappu Yadav questioned the timing and motives behind the legislation, stating, “With elections approaching in 2024, there was consensus... The Women's Bill was introduced multiple times during the Congress era. Now, with elections in 2026 on the horizon, why convene this special session? What is the intention? Is it merely to politicize?”
Point of View
Highlighting the ongoing battle for women's rights in India. The response from leaders across the political spectrum reveals a deep divide, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation to advance women's representation rather than further entrenching partisan divides.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Women's Reservation Bill?
The Women's Reservation Bill was rejected in the Lok Sabha, failing to secure the necessary special majority despite receiving 278 votes in favor.
Who criticized the Opposition's response to the Bill's defeat?
BJP Bihar State President Sanjay Saraogi and JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan Prasad both condemned the Opposition's reaction to the Bill's rejection.
What did Sanjay Saraogi mean by 'women are now awake'?
Saraogi indicated that women in India are becoming more politically aware and active, ready to confront and challenge the Opposition.
What are the concerns related to the Bill's linkage to the Census?
The Opposition has objected to the Bill being tied to the expansion of Parliament based on the 2011 Census and the delimitation exercise.
Why was the timing of the special session questioned?
Purnia MP Pappu Yadav questioned the necessity of the special session given upcoming elections, suggesting it was politically motivated.
