Modi Urges Opposition to Back Women’s Reservation Bill, Calls for Historic Consensus in Parliament

New Delhi, April 2026 : In a strong last-minute appeal to opposition parties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged lawmakers to extend their full support to the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, as Parliament prepared to vote on a key constitutional amendment aimed at enhancing women’s representation in governance.

The appeal came amid an intense and prolonged debate in the Lok Sabha over the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to operationalise women’s reservation and facilitate the delimitation process. The Bill was introduced on Thursday and approved for discussion following a formal division of votes in the House.

Taking to social media platform X, the Prime Minister noted that deliberations on the amendment had stretched late into the night, reflecting the seriousness of the issue. He emphasized that the government had addressed all concerns raised during the debate and provided detailed clarifications to dispel what he termed as “misconceptions.”

“Every apprehension has been answered, and all necessary information has been shared with members,” Modi said, expressing confidence that the legislation had been thoroughly examined from all perspectives.

Highlighting the historical context, the Prime Minister pointed out that the issue of women’s reservation has been debated for over four decades, often entangled in political disagreements. He stressed that the time had finally come to ensure that women—who constitute nearly half of the country’s population—receive their rightful share in decision-making processes.

“Even after decades of Independence, it is not appropriate that women continue to have minimal representation in governance,” he remarked, underlining the need for corrective action through legislative reform.

With voting scheduled for 4 p.m. on Friday, Modi made a direct and emotional appeal to all Members of Parliament to rise above political differences and support the Bill unanimously. He urged lawmakers to act with sensitivity and responsibility, keeping in mind the aspirations and expectations of millions of women across the country.

“The eyes of the nation’s women are upon us—on our intentions and our decisions,” he said, calling on MPs to vote in favour of the amendment and avoid any action that could hurt the sentiments of “Nari Shakti.”

In a personal appeal, the Prime Minister asked legislators to reflect on the women in their own lives—mothers, sisters, daughters, and spouses—and to listen to their conscience while casting their votes.

Describing the moment as a historic opportunity, Modi said the passage of the amendment would not only empower women but also strengthen the foundations of Indian democracy. He expressed hope that the Bill would be passed with consensus, marking a significant step toward inclusive governance.

“Let us come together to create history and ensure that women of India receive their rightful due,” he said, urging all parties to support the transformative legislation.