Telangana CM Presses Centre for Fast-Track Women’s Reservation in Legislatures

CM Revanth Reddy on Thursday demanded that the NDA government convene a special session of Parliament to immediately implement the long-pending Women’s Reservation Bill , saying the Centre must demonstrate genuine commitment towards women’s political empowerment.

Speaking in Hyderabad after paying tributes to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary, the Telangana Chief Minister called for the swift introduction of legislation guaranteeing 33 percent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies . He said the Indian National Congress and the INDIA alliance were fully prepared to support the move in Parliament.

Revanth Reddy said Rajiv Gandhi played a historic role in strengthening women’s participation in politics by introducing reservations for women in local self-governing bodies. He noted that the reforms initiated during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure opened the doors for lakhs of women to enter public life and grassroots leadership across the country.

The Chief Minister also sharpened his criticism of the Centre over the implementation of the women’s quota law passed in 2023. While all major political parties had backed the legislation in Parliament, he alleged that the Union government complicated the process by linking its implementation to the delimitation exercise and future Census operations.

According to Revanth Reddy, women’s representation should not be delayed because of constituency reorganization or political calculations. He urged the Centre not to create “unnecessary hurdles” and instead bring a fresh proposal focused on immediate implementation of reservations for women.

The Telangana CM also referred to recent debates surrounding proposals to expand Lok Sabha seats and implement women’s reservation from 2029 onward. He argued that postponing the rollout defeats the very purpose of ensuring timely and meaningful political participation for women.

Highlighting Rajiv Gandhi’s broader legacy, Revanth Reddy said the late leader not only championed women’s empowerment but also laid the foundation for India’s transformation in the IT and telecommunications sectors , helping position the country as a global technology player.

Several public representatives, senior officials, and Congress leaders participated in the commemorative event held at the Secretariat in Hyderabad.