Concerns Raised Over Women's Reservation Bill by CPI(M) MP John Brittas
CPI(M) MP John Brittas has voiced concerns regarding the central government's rapid moves to implement the Women's Reservation Bill, questioning the timing and intentions behind it. With assembly elections approaching in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, he highlights the need for a thorough discussion among opposition parties and raises alarms about potential changes to the federal balance due to proposed seat increases in legislative bodies. Brittas calls for a reconsideration of the bill's passage before the elections, emphasizing the importance of women's rights and representation in governance.
Apr 13, 2026, 15:27 IST
CPI(M) MP Questions Government's Intentions
John Brittas, a member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has expressed significant concerns regarding the swift actions taken by the central government to implement the Women's Reservation Bill. While supporting the inclusion of the bill, Brittas has raised questions about the timing and motives behind the government's actions, particularly in light of the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
During his remarks on Monday, Brittas acknowledged receiving a letter from the Prime Minister and expressed gratitude for it. He emphasized that the party has consistently advocated for women's rights and has sought reservation for women in state assemblies and the Lok Sabha for decades. However, he pointed out that several issues have emerged, questioning the government's true stance on the amendments expected to be passed in the Lok Sabha sessions starting April 16.
He further elaborated that opposition parties have repeatedly requested the convening of all-party meetings and have urged the government to postpone special sessions until after the election process concludes. Brittas noted that all opposition parties formally requested the government to reconsider the proposal and delay the current sessions or special sessions until the ongoing assembly sessions are completed, highlighting the government's rush to pass these amendments before the elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
Brittas expressed his concerns that the government intends to increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies by 50%, which could disrupt the federal balance. He stated that beyond the so-called women's reservation, the government also aims to include redistricting in this plan. The intention to raise the number of seats by 50% directly implies a significant alteration in the federal balance, raising multiple associated issues.