Women Congress protest
Bidar
A symbolic protest was staged at Bidar at Ambedkar Circle by the District Women’s Congress and State Women’s Congress, demanding immediate implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandana Adhiniyam–2023 without delay or confusion.
Addressing the gathering, Karnataka Pradesh Mahila Congress Vice-President Rajashree Swami alleged that the Central Government and BJP leaders were deliberately creating confusion regarding the implementation of the Act. She said women’s reservation has been discussed for decades and stressed that it is essential for ensuring equal political participation.
She expressed concern that despite long-standing demands for reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, full implementation has not yet been achieved. Swami noted that as per provisions of the Act, women’s reservation is expected after the 2026 Census and may come into effect in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. However, she criticised the Centre for not providing clarity to opposition parties and the media even after recent parliamentary proceedings.
She also raised concerns over reports of increasing Lok Sabha constituencies from 543 to 850, stating it could disadvantage southern states while increasing representation for more populous northern states.
Protesters demanded immediate enforcement of 33% women’s reservation within the existing 543 Lok Sabha constituencies.
Former Zilla Panchayat President Geeta Chidri said the Congress party has consistently supported women’s empowerment and backed the 2023 Bill. District Women’s Congress President Pooja George, along with leaders Vidya Tugave, Vijayalakshmi, Shaheen Begum, Sangeeta Karabari, and several party workers, participated in the protest, calling for swift implementation of the reservation law.
