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Deepa Malik Hails Women's Reservation Bill as Key to a Healthy Society

Paralympic medalist Deepa Malik has welcomed the government's push for the Women's Reservation Bill, stating that women's empowerment defines a healthy society. The proposed legislation plans to reserve one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, with implementation targeted for the 2029 elections. This move is part of a broader plan that may see the Lok Sabha's strength increase from 543 to 816 seats. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also emphasized enhancing women's participation in governance.

Key Points: Deepa Malik on Women's Reservation Bill & Political Empowerment

  • Bill aims for 33% women's quota in legislatures
  • Lok Sabha seats may increase to 816
  • Implementation likely from 2029 elections
  • Quota includes SC/ST women
  • Cabinet has approved draft amendment
2 min read

"A society is only considered healthy when women are empowered": Deepa Malik on Women's Reservation Bill

Paralympian Deepa Malik welcomes the Women's Reservation Bill, calling women's empowerment vital for a healthy society. Details on the 33% quota plan.

"A society is only considered healthy when its women are empowered. - Deepa Malik"

New Delhi, April 10

India's Paralympic silver medalist Deepa Malik has welcomed the government's push on the Women's Reservation Bill, stressing that greater political representation for women is essential for a progressive society.

On the proposed legislation, Malik told ANI, "I welcome this initiative of the Women's Reservation Bill by PM Modi. A special session is being held for this. A society is only considered healthy when its women are empowered."

Her remarks come amid the Centre's ongoing efforts to operationalise provisions related to women's reservation in legislatures. According to sources, the government is considering an amendment bill alongside a broader exercise to expand the strength of the Lok Sabha.

The proposed plan includes increasing the number of seats in the lower house from 543 to 816, with at least 273 seats earmarked for women, roughly one-third of the total strength. The move is expected to be aligned with delimitation based on the 2011 Census, with a Delimitation Commission Bill also likely to be part of the legislative agenda.

Sources further indicated that amendments to the Nari Shakti Vandan Act could be taken up to facilitate implementation. The Union Cabinet has already approved a draft amendment bill, paving the way for the rollout of 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative bodies, likely from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth Amendment) Act, 2023, commonly known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, provides for one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, including quotas within the reserved categories for SC and ST women.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent editorial, highlighted the role of women across sectors and underscored the need to enhance their participation in governance.

Malik, a Rio 2016 Paralympic medallist and former president of the Paralympic Committee of India, has been a prominent voice for inclusion and empowerment, both in sports and public life.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While the intent is good, I hope this doesn't just become a token gesture. We need to ensure that capable women from all backgrounds, not just political families, get a chance. The implementation will be key.
A
Anjali F
As a woman from a small town, this gives me so much hope. Seeing leaders like Deepa Malik speak up is inspiring. More women in Parliament means issues like safety, education, and healthcare for women will finally get the priority they deserve.
S
Suresh O
Good move, but 2029 is too far away. Why the delay? If we are serious about women's empowerment, the reservation should be implemented sooner. The country needs this change now, not after 5 more years.
K
Kavya N
Deepa Malik's words carry weight because she's broken barriers herself. From sports to politics, women are proving themselves everywhere. This bill is a formal recognition of that capability. Jai Hind!
M
Michael C
Watching from the US, this is a significant democratic reform. Increasing the Lok Sabha seats alongside women's reservation is a massive logistical undertaking. India's commitment to inclusive governance is commendable.

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