Kharge Accuses Government of Constitutional Manipulation Over Women's Reservation and Delimitation
Synopsis
In a striking accusation, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge claims the Modi government aims to alter the constitutional framework and seize executive power by linking the Women's Reservation Bill with delimitation. This controversial move raises significant questions about the government’s true intentions.
Key Takeaways
Mallikarjun Kharge claims the government aims to alter constitutional frameworks.
The Women's Reservation Bill was supported by the Congress in 2023.
The government linked the Bill to delimitation , which the Opposition opposes.
Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned after the Bill faced a majority hurdle.
Kharge insists on implementing women’s reservation within the existing framework.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused the government of having a hidden agenda to modify the constitutional framework and centralize executive power. He emphasized that the Congress, in 2023, backed the Women's Reservation Bill and facilitated its passage. However, he criticized the Centre for now linking the Bill with delimitation, which the Opposition finds unacceptable.
In a post on social media platform 'X', Kharge stated, "The Congress Party has consistently supported women's reservation. We ensured the passage of the Women's Reservation Bill in 2023. Yet, the Modi government has introduced an amendment disguised as women's reservation, adding a provision for delimitation."
He further claimed that by tying the Bill to delimitation, the Modi government is attempting to strengthen its grip on power.
"By merging the legislation on women's reservation with delimitation, the government is strategically consolidating its authority," he remarked.
Kharge insisted that women's reservation should be executed within the current structure of the 543 Lok Sabha seats.
"Our position is clear: if women's reservation is to be enacted, it must occur within the existing framework of the 543 Lok Sabha seats. Following the completion of the census and delimitation processes, the government could then consider expanding it for subsequent elections; however, they seem disinclined to do so," he explained.
Reinforcing his stance, he added, "Ultimately, the Modi government's real motive is to reshape the constitutional framework and appropriate executive power for itself."
In the meantime, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned after the proposed amendment to the Women’s Reservation framework failed to overcome a significant hurdle. The government was unable to secure the necessary majority in the Lok Sabha, needing a two-thirds majority to pass the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, but managed only 298 votes in favor and 230 against.
The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, was presented with the intent of facilitating women's reservation and enabling delimitation. Following its defeat, the government chose not to move forward with voting on delimitation and the expansion of Lok Sabha seats, citing the interconnected nature of the proposals.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the Women's Reservation Bill and its controversial link to delimitation. While the government's motives are under scrutiny, the ongoing debate highlights significant concerns regarding legislative integrity and the democratic process in India.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Women's Reservation Bill?
The Women's Reservation Bill aims to reserve a certain percentage of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, promoting gender representation in politics.
What is delimitation?
Delimitation is the process of redrawing boundaries of electoral constituencies to ensure equal representation based on population changes.
Why is the Congress opposing the government's move?
The Congress party believes that linking the Women's Reservation Bill to delimitation undermines the original intent of the Bill and is a tactic to consolidate power.
What did Kharge say about the government's intentions?
Kharge accused the Modi government of attempting to alter the constitutional framework and seize executive power by intertwining women's reservation with delimitation.
What happened in Parliament regarding this Bill?
The Women's Reservation Bill faced significant hurdles in Parliament, failing to secure the required majority in the Lok Sabha, leading to its adjournment.
