New Delhi: Rajya Sabha on Thursday passed the historic Women’s Reservation Bill. A total of 215 MPs voted in favour of the bill and no MP voted against it.
On Wednesday, Lok Sabha passed the Women’s Reservation Bill, which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, received approval after a reply by Law Minister Meghwal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked MPs for voting in favour of the women’s reservation Bill. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “A defining moment in our nation’s democratic journey. Congratulations to 140 crore Indians. I thank all the Rajya Sabha MPs who voted for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Such unanimous support is indeed gladdening. With the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament, we usher in an era of stronger representation and empowerment for the women of India. This is not merely a legislation; it is a tribute to the countless women who have made our nation. India has been enriched by their resilience and contributions. As we celebrate today, we are reminded of the strength, courage, and indomitable spirit of all the women of our nation. This historic step is a commitment to ensuring their voices are heard even more effectively”.
The bill was passed following division, with 454 members voting in favour of the legislation and two against it on the motion for passage moved by Meghwal.