MP Prabha Mallikarjun Accuses NDA Government of Politicizing Women's Reservation Bill
As elections unfold in five states, Congress MP Prabha Mallikarjun has launched a sharp critique against the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. Speaking at a press conference in Davanagere, she accused the administration of attempting to brand opposition parties, particularly the INDIA alliance, as anti-women for political gain.
Allegations of Pre-Planned Political Maneuvering
Prabha Mallikarjun asserted that the Centre's handling of the women's reservation bill was a "pre-planned move" designed to create political narratives during the election season. According to her detailed account, the government repeatedly ignored requests from AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, who sought comprehensive details about the proposed constitutional amendment. Kharge had specifically asked that the matter be discussed only after the conclusion of the five-state elections to ensure a non-partisan approach.
She highlighted the timeline of events, noting that after the budget session ended in early April, the government suddenly called a special parliamentary session on April 16, 17, and 18 to push forward the 131st constitutional amendment. "The proposal involved 33% reservation for women in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, an increase in Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 850, and a comprehensive constituency delimitation process," she explained.
Concerns Over Lack of Consultation and Delimitation
The Congress MP revealed that her party had formally requested an all-party meeting chaired by the Prime Minister to thoroughly explain the contents and implications of the bill. She alleged that this demand was completely ignored by the government, raising questions about transparency and democratic consultation.
Prabha Mallikarjun expressed particular concern about the delimitation aspect of the bill. She criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks on the issue, pointing to historical precedents where constituency boundaries were allegedly shaped for political advantage in regions like Jammu & Kashmir and Assam. "The opposition has already witnessed how delimitation can be manipulated for electoral benefits," she stated, urging caution in implementing such significant changes.
Call for Responsible Governance
In her concluding remarks, the MP issued a strong warning to the ruling party: "The BJP should not 'play with the sentiments of women' for votes." She emphasized that there was no legitimate need for haste in passing the bill, noting that existing constitutional provisions through the 73rd and 74th amendments already ensure 50% representation for women in local governing bodies across India.
Prabha Mallikarjun's statements reflect growing tensions between the ruling coalition and opposition parties as multiple state elections progress simultaneously. Her allegations suggest that the women's reservation bill has become a focal point in broader political battles over representation, electoral strategy, and constitutional amendments.
