New Delhi: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp and confrontational attack on the Women’s Reservation Bill at the Lok Sabha during the special session of Parliament, alleging that the legislation is a politically driven attempt to reshape India’s electoral landscape rather than empower women.
Gandhi argued that the bill does little to advance women’s rights and instead serves as a diversion from key demands such as a caste census. He claimed the move is part of a broader strategy by the central government to bypass caste-based data and consolidate control over political representation, particularly targeting Other Backward Classes (OBCs). He further highlighted the historical marginalisation of Dalits, OBC communities and their women, warning that the bill fails to address these systemic inequalities.
Escalating his criticism, Gandhi accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of using the bill to serve its own political interests. He alleged that the ruling party is attempting to redraw the country’s political map, similar to past developments in regions like Assam and Jammu and Kashmir, and asserted that such efforts would be resisted.
The attack extended to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, with Gandhi accusing the government of resorting to dramatic and misleading policy moves, referencing past decisions such as demonetisation. His remarks repeatedly drew interventions from the Speaker, who urged him to adhere to parliamentary rules during the heated session.
The statements triggered a swift response from the government, with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju accusing Gandhi of disrespecting the Prime Minister and lowering the dignity of the House.
As the debate intensifies, Gandhi reiterated that the core issue remains whether caste census data will be used to ensure fair representation, alleging that the current approach is aimed at denying political power and representation to OBC communities.