New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) On Tuesday, leaders from various political factions expressed contrasting opinions regarding the rollout of the Women's Reservation Act. While many called for its swift implementation, others criticized the Union government for purported delays in actualizing it.

Union Minister Chirag Paswan criticized opposition parties, claiming they have eroded public confidence and are more focused on accusations than self-reflection.

“Your party has lost its grip; the public no longer trusts you. This situation is evident among all opposition factions. The Congress dedicates more time to making accusations rather than reflecting on its actions,” Paswan remarked when addressing queries about the women’s reservation law.

BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat emphasized the need for the legislation's prompt execution, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to facilitate its progress.

“In terms of the Women’s Reservation Bill, I implore the Prime Minister to ensure its introduction. Whether the Opposition chooses to engage with it is their decision,” Sehrawat stated.

Meanwhile, leaders from the Congress party reiterated their long-standing advocacy for women's reservation in legislative bodies.

Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad highlighted that the initiative had previously gained approval during the Congress-led UPA government.

“During our UPA administration in the Rajya Sabha, we endorsed this proposal. We advocate for the 33 percent reservation initiated by Rajiv Gandhi,” Gaikwad expressed.

Senior Congress MP Tariq Anwar remarked that the call for implementing the law has been pending for an extended period, reaffirming the party's unwavering support.

“Mallikarjun Kharge has accurately pointed out that the Women’s Reservation Bill has faced significant delays. Our support for women's reservation has been consistent,” Anwar commented.

Congress MP Hibi Eden also underscored the pivotal role of Congress leadership in advocating for the legislation.

“The concept of women's reservation was primarily championed by the Congress. Sonia Gandhi made substantial efforts as UPA Chairperson to ensure the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, which is why the Congress and the Opposition collectively endorsed it,” Eden stated.

Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan mentioned that the Opposition broadly supports the legislation but raised concerns regarding the Union government’s implementation speed.

“The Opposition stands with this Bill. The Union government has merely announced it; many bills are declared but not acted upon. There is a pressing need to empower women, which would also benefit our economy,” Hasan added.

Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal expressed her party's full endorsement of women's reservation in legislatures.

The Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, previously known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, mandates 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Delhi Assembly, including seats allocated for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Passed in September 2023, this reservation will take effect post-delimitation following the next national census and will remain in place for a duration of 15 years.