NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha passed the Women's Reservation Bill today with 214 ayes, 0 noes, and 0 absentations. The Lok Sabha passed the Bill yesterday.
After the passage of the Bill in the Elders' House, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that this bill would lead to a new confidence in the people of the country. "All members and political parties have played a significant role in empowering women and enhancing 'Nari Shakti'. Let us give the country a strong message," he said.
Congress' Lead of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, said, "We are giving our unconditional support to the bill, and it will be passed (in the Rajya Sabha), but make sure this doesn't turn into an election 'jumla'. I stand in support of this Bill. My party and INDIA parties wholeheartedly support this Bill ..." He also raised the demand for an OBC quota in the Women's Reservation Bill.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "In women-related matters, we (BJP) do not play any politics. It is an article of faith for the Prime Minister, and, therefore, we do everything that we have done, whether it is Article 370, triple talaq, or women's reservation bill.
The BJP has been consistently supportive of women's reservation. I want to credit former PM PV Narasimha Rao's government for bringing 33% reservation at the panchayat level. As a result, we have seen a groundswell at panchayat level where reservation has been increased to 50%, showing the contribution of women. It is important we build consensus and prepare for the economic and social empowerment of women."
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