Uttar Pradesh CM to Head 'Jan Aakrosh Mahila Padyatra' in Lucknow Following Defeat of Women’s Reservation Bill
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 21 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, is poised to spearhead the 'Jan Aakrosh Mahila Padyatra' in Lucknow this Tuesday, marching from his official residence to the state Assembly in response to the defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha.
This march, which will span approximately 1.75 kilometers, is set to commence shortly and will feature participation from Cabinet ministers, BJP leaders, and numerous women supporters.
The demonstration aims to convey strong political dissent regarding the Bill’s failure, which has been associated with delimitation and the 2011 Census. BJP leaders claim that this setback undermines women’s representation rights. The padyatra is being framed as a display of “women’s anger,” with the ruling coalition asserting that this issue will have enduring political ramifications.
In a statement to IANS prior to the march, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak remarked, “Women are stepping out to voice their frustration. The manner in which the Opposition—SP and Congress—has obstructed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is deeply disappointing. There is significant anger among women, and the SP and Congress will face repercussions in future elections.”
The political confrontation surrounding the Bill has escalated beyond mere parliamentary numbers, evidenced by the measure's defeat, which saw 298 votes in favor and 230 against.
The debate has now evolved into a broader narrative contest between the ruling and Opposition factions.
While the government presents the issue as one of empowering women and warns of electoral consequences in 2029 and beyond, the Opposition contends that the Bill hides more extensive political motives concerning the reconfiguration of electoral representation in the nation.
The Opposition has also challenged the government regarding the delay in implementing the Bill, which was passed unanimously in 2023 but has yet to be enacted by the NDA government.
On the previous day, similar protests were held across various states.
With multiple states engaging in coordinated protest marches, the issue has now escalated into a significant political flashpoint.