New Delhi, April 17 (NationPress) The Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, expressed her support for the Women's Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha on Friday, emphasizing that women across the nation are keenly observing the proceedings and are hopeful for a transformative decision.

"Half of the country’s population is focused on the House today, and they anticipate a significant shift in Indian politics to reach its conclusion," she stated.

She acknowledged that although a political consensus was previously established, the legislation has not yet come to fruition.

"Indeed, all parties united in 2023 to form the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, yet even now, half of our nation awaits the passage of this Bill," she remarked.

MoS Patel pointed out the insufficient representation of women in legislative bodies, stating, "Currently, women's political participation stands at only 14% in the Lok Sabha and 18% in the Rajya Sabha, with no state Assembly exceeding 10%. This statistic is disheartening, and it’s time for a transformation."

She also criticized political parties for their candidate selection processes, saying, "It disappoints me to see that often political parties prioritize 'bahubalis' (strongmen) and criminals over qualified women, who are frequently overlooked as viable candidates. We have the chance to rectify this situation today."

Urging for collective action, MoS Patel added, "That is why our Prime Minister has called upon every party to collaboratively advance this Bill."

Addressing concerns raised during discussions, she noted, "Several issues have emerged, particularly regarding Southern states that excelled in population control. However, Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that every state will see a 50% increase in seats, ensuring no state faces issues due to this change."

In response to the Opposition's criticism, MoS Patel stated, "Opposition MPs claim this is not documented, but we assure you it is backed by facts."

She also directed her critique towards previous administrations, asking, "When you had the power with a strength of 543, why didn’t you push for the Women's Reservation Bill?"

Addressing allegations that the Union government is leveraging this issue for political gain, MoS Patel remarked, "We have convened this special parliamentary session amid ongoing elections in several states for political profit. But I assure you, this will also benefit you. Join this 'noble cause' and convey to half the population of our country that you endorse the Women's Reservation Bill."

These comments came during an extensive debate in the Lok Sabha concerning key legislation on women's reservation and delimitation, with a vote on the Bill anticipated shortly.