Lok Sabha Rejects Women's Reservation Bill Amid Opposition Unity
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, aimed at reserving 33% of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, failed to pass in the Lok Sabha, receiving only 298 votes in favour against the required two-thirds majority of approximately 360 votes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized opposition parties, including Congress and DMK, for derailing the bill, claiming it was a missed opportunity for women's empowerment. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated that the BJP government had lost public trust, calling the day a 'Black Day' for the Centre. Following the bill's failure, several BJP women MPs were detained during protests in Delhi.
Published 3 days ago • 17 Apr 2026, 11:10 PM IST