Smriti Irani Slams Congress After Women Quota Bill Defeat

Senior BJP leader Smriti Irani launched a sharp attack on the Congress after the Women’s Reservation Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha, accusing the Opposition of denying rights to women.

The remarks came amid intense political exchanges following the bill’s rejection, which has triggered a nationwide debate on women’s representation and political intent.

Bill Falls Short Despite Majority Support

The Women’s Quota Bill secured 298 votes in favour and 230 against, falling short of the required 352 votes needed for a Constitutional amendment.

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The failure to meet the two-thirds majority led to the bill’s rejection, despite it receiving more votes in support.

Irani Accuses Opposition of ‘Celebrating’ Defeat

Smriti Irani alleged that Congress leaders celebrated the bill’s failure, calling it a setback for women’s empowerment.

She criticised the Opposition for what she described as a lack of commitment to improving women’s representation in Parliament and state assemblies.

Government Calls Defeat a Major Setback

Leaders from the ruling side termed the bill’s rejection a serious setback, arguing that it was aimed at ensuring greater participation of women in politics.

They accused Opposition parties of prioritising political strategy over long-term reform.

Opposition Defends Its Stand

Opposition leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, defended their position, stating that they support women’s reservation but objected to the way the bill was structured.

Concerns were raised over linking the proposal with delimitation and its potential political implications.

Debate Extends Beyond Parliament

The issue has now expanded beyond Parliament, with both sides taking their arguments to the public.

Political parties are expected to use the bill’s outcome to shape narratives ahead of future elections.

Women’s Reservation Remains Key Political Issue

Despite the bill’s failure, the demand for women’s reservation continues to remain a major topic in Indian politics.

The government may revisit the proposal, while Opposition parties have called for a revised version that ensures broader consensus.