Jammu, April 7 (NationPress) Minister Sakeena Itoo of Jammu and Kashmir expressed her support for the Women’s Reservation Bill on Tuesday, describing it as a significant and long-awaited advancement toward increasing women’s involvement in governance.

Speaking with the media in Jammu, Itoo remarked, “This should have been implemented much sooner -- yet it's better late than never, as long as it finally arrives.” She emphasized that the bill's enactment would be pivotal in rectifying the gender disparity in politics.

She pointed out that societal challenges persist, stating that certain factions still resist acknowledging women’s achievements. “There are individuals who cannot accept women’s advancement; when women progress, they often feel threatened. The passage of this reservation bill will diminish the dominance of those who are anxious about this change,” she explained.

Feeling optimistic, Itoo conveyed her best wishes to women nationwide. “This news brings me joy, and I congratulate all our sisters across India, starting from Kashmir,” she stated.

Inspired by prominent female figures, she added, “Some strive to hold women back, but I believe that, similar to Rani Lakshmibai, Indira Gandhi, and our current Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, as well as leaders like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the opposition, women will persist in working diligently and with integrity.” She reiterated her endorsement of the bill on behalf of the women in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a related note, Karamjit Kaur, the Lok Sabha in-charge of the Aam Aadmi Party from Hoshiarpur and Chairperson of the District Planning Board, also praised the initiative, calling it a crucial stride toward women’s empowerment.

She affirmed that the Aam Aadmi Party is fully behind this decision, believing it could lead to transformative changes. “In various states, countless women are already benefiting from reservation. If this decision is enacted within the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, it could herald a historic shift for women,” she remarked.

However, Kaur expressed concerns regarding the bill's potential passage in Parliament, indicating that some uncertainties persist. “We still have questions about whether the bill will be approved,” she said.

Regarding its political implications, she clarified that this measure should not be interpreted through a partisan perspective. “This is not solely a benefit for one party, like the BJP. If the bill is approved, it will benefit all political factions and their supporters,” she asserted.

Kaur emphasized that the issue should not be politicized. “This concerns women’s rights and empowerment; it deserves universal support,” she insisted.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Kaur shared how she advanced within the party, noting that the Aam Aadmi Party entrusted her with significant responsibilities after she began as a volunteer, illustrating the party's commitment to fostering women’s leadership.