KOLKATA, WEST BENGAL — BJP leader Smriti Irani on April 15 called for broader political support for the Women’s Reservation initiative, while also criticising opposition parties over their stance on the issue.
Speaking in Kolkata, Irani highlighted the significant economic and social contributions of women in India and said that enhancing their political participation is a necessary step toward inclusive governance. She appealed to all political parties to support the effort led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to implement 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.
Irani described the move as a long-pending reform, noting that the decision to provide reservation for women in legislatures had been under discussion for nearly three decades before being taken forward by the current government. She stated that the initiative reflects the BJP’s commitment to strengthening women’s role in politics and public life.
At the same time, Irani criticised opposition parties, pointing out what she described as a contradiction in their approach. She said it was regrettable that while efforts are being made to increase women’s participation, some opposition parties, including those led by prominent women leaders, are opposing the initiative.
Referring specifically to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Irani alleged that the opposition’s position raises questions about their commitment to equal laws and fair governance. She further claimed that the functioning of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal reflects instances where the law has been politically misused.
Irani emphasized that the Women’s Reservation initiative is aimed at empowering women across the country by ensuring greater representation in decision-making bodies, allowing them to play a more active role in shaping policies and governance.
Her remarks come amid ongoing political debate surrounding the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill, with leaders across parties expressing differing views on its timing, structure, and broader implications.
Smriti Irani’s statements underscore the BJP’s push to position the Women’s Reservation initiative as a transformative reform, while also highlighting the sharp political differences that continue to shape the national discourse on the issue.
