Naidu Seeks Cross-Party Support for Women’s Reservation Bill, Calls It Historic Step for Equality

Amaravati, April 2026 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has written to leaders of all major political parties and Members of Parliament from the state, urging them to extend unified support in Parliament for the landmark Women’s Reservation Bill.

In his appeal, Naidu called for backing the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan’ Constitution Amendment Bill, which proposes 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, expected to be implemented from the 2029 elections. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief described the move as a historic milestone that would reshape Indian democracy and ensure greater gender equality in governance.

Naidu also urged leaders to support the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in strengthening women’s representation in legislative bodies. He termed the introduction of the Bill in Parliament as a “momentous occasion” that fulfills a long-standing demand for women’s political empowerment.

The Chief Minister reached out to several key leaders across party lines, including Pawan Kalyan of the Jana Sena Party, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of the YSR Congress Party, and Y. S. Sharmila Reddy of the Congress, along with leaders of Left parties. He emphasised that this was a rare opportunity for all parties to come together beyond political differences.

In his letter, Naidu said the Bill marks the realisation of a decades-old aspiration and represents a transformative step toward equality. He highlighted that reserving one-third of seats for women in legislative bodies is a progressive move that would set a global benchmark.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, especially women, Naidu thanked the Prime Minister for taking forward the initiative. He reiterated his belief that meaningful progress in society can only be achieved when women have a stronger voice in decision-making processes.

“Women today are excelling across sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, defence, and industry. Their growing contributions underline the need for greater representation in governance,” he noted, adding that empowering women politically would accelerate overall national development.

Naidu further stressed that the issue transcends politics and should be viewed as a matter of national pride and dignity. He called upon all Members of Parliament to support the Bill unanimously and make it a defining moment in India’s democratic journey.

He urged leaders not to miss the opportunity to be part of what he described as a “sacred moment” dedicated to honouring women. “As a nation that reveres Mother India, it is our collective responsibility to strengthen ‘Nari Shakti’ and ensure their rightful place in governance,” he said.

The Chief Minister concluded by appealing for a united voice in Parliament to ensure the passage and implementation of the legislation, stating that such a step would leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

What is the Women’s Reservation Bill?

• It is a constitutional amendment that proposes 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
• The Bill, known as ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, aims to enhance women’s participation in law-making bodies.
• The reservation is expected to come into effect from 2029, after delimitation and related processes are completed.

Key Benefits of the Bill

• Greater Representation: Ensures women have a stronger voice in governance and policymaking.
• Inclusive Development: Leads to policies that better address issues related to women, families, and social welfare.
• Empowerment Boost: Encourages political participation among women, fostering leadership and equality in public life.

The push for the Women’s Reservation Bill marks a significant step toward inclusive governance, with leaders like Chandrababu Naidu advocating consensus to make it a reality.