Rajiv Gandhi's Legacy: 50% Women’s Quota in Local Governance, Says Congress MP
Synopsis
In a recent campaign, Congress MP Shaktisinh Gohil highlighted the impact of former PM Rajiv Gandhi's efforts in establishing a 50% reservation for women in local self-governance. He urged immediate implementation of the women's reservation law and criticized the ongoing corruption under BJP rule.
Key Takeaways
50% reservation for women in local governance is a significant milestone.
Rajiv Gandhi's legacy continues to influence women's participation in politics.
The women's reservation law needs immediate implementation.
Allegations of corruption under BJP governance are a concern.
Congress aims for corruption-free governance and better public services.
Ahmedabad, April 20 (NationPress) The implementation of 50% reservation for women in local self-governing bodies was made feasible thanks to the initiatives of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi along with the Congress party, stated Rajya Sabha MP Shaktisinh Gohil on Monday during his campaign for the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) elections.
While addressing various election gatherings across Ahmedabad, Gohil emphasized that this policy has significantly enhanced women's involvement at the grassroots level.
He noted that although a law for women's reservations in Parliament and state assemblies was passed unanimously in 2023, its implementation remains pending.
"The women's reservation law is already in place. The government should take immediate action for its implementation. If any changes are necessary, the government should call a Parliament session, and all opposition parties will back it," he stated.
Gohil, who participated in campaign rallies and public outreach efforts with party candidates and leaders, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of operating with rampant corruption.
He claimed that contractors receive work orders only after adding percentages for party officials.
"This is why bridges are collapsing even before their inauguration," he remarked, asserting that under BJP rule, newly built bridges have failed due to corruption, and repair contracts are awarded at costs exceeding the original construction.
"The BJP had gained power previously with a substantial majority, while voters did not ensure a formidable opposition, which allowed such practices to flourish," he added.
In a plea to voters ahead of the civic elections, he urged them to provide Congress with a majority to guarantee corruption-free governance.
Outlining the party’s promises, Gohil said: "A Congress-led civic administration would focus on providing affordable and quality education, enhancing road infrastructure, resolving water supply and drainage issues, and implementing strategies to alleviate traffic congestion."
Additionally, he mentioned efforts to ease the tax burden, ensure no arbitrary demolitions of homes, and establish a rehabilitation policy.
Point of View
Crediting Rajiv Gandhi's influence. His appeal for the implementation of the women's reservation law reflects ongoing challenges in political accountability and governance, particularly in light of allegations against the BJP.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shaktisinh Gohil say about women's reservation?
Shaktisinh Gohil emphasized that the 50% reservation for women in local self-governance was made possible due to Rajiv Gandhi's efforts and called for the immediate implementation of the women's reservation law.
Why is the women's reservation law not implemented yet?
Although the women's reservation law was passed unanimously in 2023, it has yet to be implemented. Gohil urged the government to act swiftly on this matter.
What criticisms did Gohil make against the BJP?
Gohil accused the BJP of rampant corruption, alleging that contractors receive work orders only after paying percentages to party leaders, leading to infrastructural failures.
What are the Congress party's commitments regarding governance?
The Congress party plans to focus on affordable education, improved infrastructure, efficient water supply, and traffic management, while also tackling corruption.
What was Gohil's message to voters?
Gohil appealed to voters to support the Congress party in the upcoming elections to ensure corruption-free governance and enhance women's participation in politics.
