Parliament set for 21st century's biggest women rights push: PM

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the forthcoming constitutional amendments for the implementation of the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' as one of the biggest decisions India will take in the 21st century to empower women. He lauded the growing participation of women in different walks of life while outperforming men in domains traditionally considered male-dominated.

Addressing women at a programme on 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam', the Prime Minister said Parliament is on the verge of creating history, as the passage of the constitutional amendments will further boost social justice. "The wait of decades, from state assemblies to the nation's Parliament, is coming to an end... India is about to take one of the biggest decisions of the 21st century, a decision dedicated to Nari Shakti," he said.

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Recalling the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act in April 2023, Modi said all political parties had agreed that it should be implemented by 2029.

The Nari Shakti Vandan Act must be implemented on time so that women's participation strengthens our democracy, the PM underlined, adding that Parliament will meet on April 16 to ensure this. "Our effort and priority is that this work should be accomplished through dialogue, cooperation and participation, which will enhance the dignity of Parliament," Modi said.

He maintained that there is great enthusiasm among women regarding the move, which will fulfil their aspirations of becoming lawmakers.

"Their dreams have received new wings, and a positive atmosphere has been created in the country... I appeal to all women to maintain active participation in this entire process and meet their MPs to share their perspectives and expectations," he said.

Modi also underscored the important role played by women during the freedom struggle, in the Constituent Assembly, and in laying the foundation of independent India. Today, women hold several key positions, from the President of India to the finance ministry, among others.

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Interestingly, the PM mentioned the Panchayati Raj institutions, saying they are an excellent example of women's leadership. Rajiv Gandhi had piloted amendments to provide 33% quota for women in panchayats.