Women’s quota must roll out by 2029, reflects nation’s will: PM Modi

Reiterating the government’s push for greater political representation of women, Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act in the 2029 general elections reflects the “collective sentiment of the nation,” and urged all political parties to unite in ensuring its timely rollout.

Addressing a public meeting in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, ahead of the Centre’s proposed special Parliament sittings from April 16, the Prime Minister stressed that there should be no further delay in operationalising the landmark legislation . He made these remarks while inaugurating the Delhi–Dehradun economic corridor, using the platform to push for consensus across party lines on the issue.

The law in focus, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, was passed in September 2023 after nearly four decades of political debate. It provides for reserving one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. In practical terms, one-third translates to roughly 33.33 per cent representation meaning, for instance, around 181 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats would be earmarked for women once implemented.

Calling the Act a historic step toward gender equality in governance, Modi said the measure carries the aspirations of “every sister and daughter” in the country. He appealed to all parties to support necessary amendments and processes required to bring the law into force in time for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

The Prime Minister also revealed that he has written to women across the country, urging them to become active participants in shaping India’s future. He asserted that stronger participation of women in legislative bodies would not only deepen democratic values but also accelerate the journey towards a developed India.

Highlighting women’s growing presence across sectors, Modi said it is only fitting that their role in decision-making institutions expands proportionately. With political momentum building ahead of the special parliamentary session, the call for consensus signals a renewed push to translate legislative intent into electoral reality.