With the approval of the President, 'Nari Shakti Vandan Act' became the 106th amendment.

In a historic move, President Draupadi Murmu has given her approval to the Women's Reservation Bill, which was passed by both Houses of Parliament during a special session held on September 29, 2023. This momentous occasion has paved the way for the enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act. The Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill, 2023, which received the President's assent under Article 111 of the Constitution, will now officially be known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act.

With the approval of the President, 'Nari Shakti Vandan Act' became the 106th amendment.

Strengthening Democracy and Women's Representation

The Nari Shakti Vandan Act brings significant changes to the Indian political landscape. It introduces amendments to Article 239AA of the Constitution, focusing on the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, and Article 330A, impacting the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. These amendments are aimed at promoting gender diversity and increasing the representation of women in these vital institutions.

A Remarkable Increase in Women's Representation

One of the most notable outcomes of the Women's Reservation Bill is the substantial increase in the number of women members in the Lok Sabha. Currently, there are 82 women members, but with the implementation of this bill, this number will soar to 181. The bill, which was initially introduced by Mr. Meghwal in the Lok Sabha on September 19, received overwhelming support, with 454 votes in favor and only 2 votes in opposition. It was subsequently passed unanimously by the Rajya Sabha on September 21, with 214 votes in favor.

Unanimous Support for Women's Empowerment

While traditionally, constitutional amendments require approval from at least 50 percent of the states, the Women's Reservation Bill faced no opposition on this front. This unanimous support from all corners of the country underscores the importance and urgency of empowering women in Indian politics.

Nari Shakti Vandan Act: A Glimpse into the Future

The implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act will require careful planning and execution. One of the primary challenges lies in determining the special seats to be earmarked for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. This process will be closely linked to the upcoming census and the subsequent delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha and assembly constituencies.

Ensuring Equal Representation

The quota for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies is set to continue for 15 years, with provisions for Parliament to extend this period as needed. This step is critical, given that the current representation of women in the Lok Sabha stands at approximately 15 percent, and in many state assemblies, it is less than 10 percent. The Nari Shakti Vandan Act is a significant stride towards ensuring that women have a more equitable presence in decision-making bodies.

A Long-Awaited Victory

The journey of the Women's Reservation Bill has been a long and arduous one. It was first introduced in the Lok Sabha on September 12, 1996, by the UPA government. Over the last 27 years, it awaited approval from Parliament. The Upper House did pass the Women's Reservation Bill in 2010 during the Congress-led UPA government's tenure. However, it was not taken up in the Lok Sabha and eventually lapsed in the Lower House.

In conclusion, the approval of the Women's Reservation Bill and the subsequent enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act mark a historic moment for Indian democracy. This legislation paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse political landscape, ensuring that women have a stronger voice in shaping the nation's future.

FAQs

1. What is the Nari Shakti Vandan Act?

The Nari Shakti Vandan Act is the popular name for the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, which aims to increase the representation of women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

2. How many women members will be there in the Lok Sabha after the implementation of this act?

After the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill, the number of women members in the Lok Sabha will increase from 82 to 181.

3. How long will the quota for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies continue?

The quota for women will continue for 15 years, with provisions for Parliament to extend the period if needed.

4. Why did the Women's Reservation Bill not require state ratification?

The bill received unanimous support in both Houses of Parliament, eliminating the need for state ratification.

5. When was the Women's Reservation Bill first introduced, and why did it take so long to pass?

The bill was first introduced in the Lok Sabha in 1996 but faced challenges in gaining approval until its recent passage.