TDP Minister Nara Lokesh proposes 33% reservation for Women in party ahead of 2029 General Elections
Amaravati, May 27
Telugu Desam Party Working President and Minister Nara Lokesh on Monday proposed a 33 pc reservation for women within the party for the 2029 General Elections, during the opening day of Mahanadu 2026.
With this year's Mahanadu themed "Stree Shakti," the announcement is being viewed as a significant political and ideological commitment toward fostering women-led leadership and gender equality.
The TDP said that it has taken steps to enhance women's representation within its organisational structure by appointing MP Byreddy Shabari as its first woman National General Secretary.
Party officials highlighted that Nara Lokesh has consistently prioritised women's empowerment, ranging from progressive reforms in education and textbooks to continuous advocacy for dignity and respect for women in political and social spheres.
Addressing the gathering, Lokesh emphasised that the next era of Indian politics must be defined by women's leadership. He stated that the NDA government has taken a historic step by introducing the Women's Reservation Bill and asserted that women must not remain mere beneficiaries of welfare schemes and should become active decision-makers in governance.
Contrasting the TDP's position with that of the opposition, Lokesh alleged that opposition parties had attempted to obstruct women's empowerment by opposing the reservation legislation. In contrast, he asserted that the TDP is committed to empowerment in both principle and practice.
Calling for decisive action, Lokesh urged the party to lead from the front and proposed that the party allocate 33% seats to women in the 2029 Elections. He described it not as a slogan, but as a commitment to the future of India.
Minister Lokesh further stated that the country needs more women lawmakers, women leaders and women policymakers. He said the future of the Telugu Desam Party would be led shoulder to shoulder by women and termed the proposal as the party's resolve, responsibility and commitment towards building a stronger and more inclusive political future.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Lokesh garu is talking about women empowerment, but where are the women in top positions right now? Byreddy Shabari as General Secretary is one thing, but we need more than just token appointments. The real test will be in the candidate selection for 2029 – let's hope this isn't just election gimmickry.
Interesting move from TDP. From an outsider's perspective, it's bold to set a specific internal quota for women candidates so far ahead of elections. But as we've seen in other countries, quotas alone don't guarantee quality representation. Need mentorship and support systems for women politicians too.
Opposition parties are crying foul, but they themselves have done little for women's representation. At least Lokesh is putting it in writing and setting a deadline. As someone who's seen politics in Andhra, I can say this will shake things up. Women voters are a powerful force now.
As a young woman from Andhra, this gives me hope! 🚺 I've seen how women are sidelined in local politics. If TDP actually implements this, it could be a game-changer for the entire country. But please, ensure it's not just reserved seats – give them real power in committees and decision-making.
33% internal reservation is progressive, but I worry about implementation. Many women candidates won't have the same political networks or funding as men. TDP needs to also provide training, financial support, and safe spaces for women to participate. Otherwise, this is just a paper promise.
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