The Delhi Assembly on Monday passed a censure motion against the central government, accusing it of delaying the passage of the Women's Quota Bill. The bill, which seeks to reserve 33% of seats in Parliament and state legislative assemblies for women, has been a long-standing demand. The motion was moved by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who criticized the Centre for its lack of urgency.
Key Highlights of the Motion
The censure motion was adopted by a voice vote, with members from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and other opposition parties supporting it. The motion stated that the central government's inaction on the bill is a betrayal of women's empowerment. It also called for the immediate introduction and passage of the bill in the Lok Sabha.
Background of the Bill
The Women's Quota Bill, also known as the Constitution (108th Amendment) Bill, was first introduced in 1996. It has been pending for over two decades due to lack of political consensus. The bill proposes to reserve one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, with a sub-quota for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Several women's rights organizations have been campaigning for the bill's passage, arguing that it is crucial for gender equality in political representation. Currently, women hold only about 14% of seats in the Lok Sabha, far below the proposed 33%.
Political Reactions
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP-led central government of paying lip service to women's empowerment. He said, "The Centre must stop delaying and pass the bill in the upcoming session." Meanwhile, BJP leaders countered that the bill requires wider consultation and consensus among parties.
The censure motion is largely symbolic, as the Delhi Assembly cannot force the central government to act. However, it sends a strong message to the Centre ahead of the next general elections.
