Annpurna Devi backs Women’s Reservation Bill as opposition firms up strategy ahead of vote
April 17, 2026: A tense political atmosphere prevails in the Lok Sabha as three major bills, including the Women’s Reservation Bill and delimitation-related constitutional amendments, are set for voting at 4:00 PM today. The second day of the special parliamentary session has witnessed intense activity, with opposition leaders holding a strategy meeting inside the Parliament complex to finalise a unified stand after a day of heated debates and repeated disruptions.
The government has defended the proposed legislation as a landmark move to enhance women’s political representation and strengthen democratic participation. Annpurna Devi said the bill reflects the government’s consistent push for women-led development and aims to ensure 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. She added that while previous efforts faced delays, the current framework is designed for structured implementation following delimitation.
However, opposition parties have raised concerns over the timing and intent of the bills, particularly their linkage with delimitation and broader electoral restructuring. They have called for greater clarity on population data and constitutional implications before proceeding. With voting scheduled later in the day, the outcome is expected to shape the future of one of India’s most significant proposed electoral reforms.