'Opposition's Fear of PM Modi's Popularity' - Law Minister on Women's Quota Bill Failure
Synopsis
In a recent statement, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal accused opposition parties of blocking the Women's Quota Bill due to fears about PM Modi's rising popularity. This bill aimed to enhance women's representation in the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies.
Key Takeaways
Women's Quota Bill aimed to increase representation in the Lok Sabha.
Opposition accused of blocking the Bill for political reasons.
Meghwal highlighted PM Modi's popularity as a factor in the opposition's resistance.
Criticism directed at Rahul Gandhi for remarks about military operations.
The issue reflects ongoing debates about women's rights in India.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal intensified the government's criticism of the Opposition on Saturday, following the failure of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha. He claimed that the resistance from MPs was motivated by political factors, particularly the rising popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This proposed legislation aimed to expand the Lok Sabha from 543 to 850 seats and establish a 33% reservation for women in both the House and state Assemblies, a long-promised reform that has been postponed until after the next delimitation.
In an interview with IANS, Meghwal remarked that the notification for the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, released by the Center on April 16, was simply “part of the process.”
He criticized the opposition parties, stating, “They neither comprehend nor acknowledge it. I must emphasize that had the Women’s Bill been approved, it would have granted women representation in both the Lok Sabha and legislative assemblies, which they opposed.”
“Their fear was that if the Bill passed, it would further enhance Prime Minister Modi’s popularity, hence the obstruction,” he added.
Meghwal referenced the Prime Minister’s remarks in the House, saying, “Prime Minister Modi mentioned that the Opposition could take credit, but the Bill must pass.”
He accused the Congress and other opposition factions of committing “injustice” to women in the nation, asserting that “this cannot be condemned enough.”
Furthermore, he pointed out the opposition's apparent celebration of the Bill's failure, labeling it “unfortunate.” He said, “You are hindering women’s rights and then celebrating it. Some were seen dancing and rejoicing.”
He confidently predicted that voters, especially women, would “certainly hold them accountable” for their actions against women’s rights.
Additionally, he charged Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi with disrespecting the armed forces, stating, “He has also insulted the military, referring to Operation Sindoor as ‘magic’.”
His comments came in light of Rahul Gandhi's remarks likening “the magician of Balakot, the magician of demonetisation, and the magician of Sindoor,” which had caused a stir during a Lok Sabha discussion.
Point of View
Showcasing the government's stance against the Opposition's alleged failure to support women's representation in legislative bodies. It highlights the contentious atmosphere in Indian politics regarding gender equality and the influential role of key political figures.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill?
The Bill aimed to increase the Lok Sabha's strength from 543 to 850 seats and implement a 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies.
Why did the Bill fail to pass?
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal attributed the opposition to political motivations, including fears over Prime Minister Modi's popularity.
What are the implications of this Bill for women's representation?
Had it passed, the Bill would have significantly increased women's representation in legislative bodies, promoting gender equality in politics.
Who is Arjun Ram Meghwal?
Arjun Ram Meghwal is the Union Minister of Law and Justice in India, known for his outspoken views on political matters.
What comments did Rahul Gandhi make that stirred controversy?
Rahul Gandhi referred to military operations as 'magic,' which drew criticism from Meghwal and others for disrespecting the armed forces.
