Pratibha Patil Supports Women's Quota Bill Ahead of Parliament Session
Former President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has expressed her support for the women's quota bill in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Patil, who served as India's first woman President from 2007 to 2012, described the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam constitutional amendment as a significant step for women's representation in legislative bodies. She highlighted the bill's potential to enhance democratic participation and bridge historical inequities. The Special Session of Parliament is set to begin on April 16, where amendments to the Act and a proposed delimitation bill will be discussed to enable one-third reservation for women in Parliament. Patil's endorsement comes amid political differences, with Sonia Gandhi questioning the timing of the bill. Patil remains optimistic that the reform will inspire women, particularly from rural and marginalised communities, to take on leadership roles.
Published 5 hours ago • 15 Apr 2026, 11:43 AM IST