Opposition Criticized Over Constitutional Amendment Bills by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha

In a recent parliamentary session, JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha defended the women's reservation bill while criticizing the opposition's claims that constitutional amendments would deepen regional divides. He questioned the rationale behind the opposition's protests, emphasizing his party's long-standing support for the bill. Meanwhile, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi raised concerns about the government's approach to the women's reservation act, arguing it contradicts fundamental rights and federal principles. This ongoing debate highlights the political tensions surrounding women's representation in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 16:40 IST

JD(U) MP Defends Women's Reservation Bill

On Thursday, Sanjay Kumar Jha, a member of the Janata Dal (United), criticized the opposition for their stance against the delimitation bill and other constitutional amendment proposals. He dismissed claims that these bills would exacerbate the divide between North and South India, questioning how such a gap could widen when every state is set to see a 50% increase. Jha suggested that the opposition's theatrics stem from their desire to oppose the women's reservation bill.

Jha further pointed out that the women's reservation bill was already passed in 2023, questioning the rationale behind the current opposition. He emphasized that his party has consistently supported the bill, with Nitish Kumar being a long-time advocate for it. Despite the opposition's attempts to create division over the introduction of three bills through a voice vote, the amendment bill for the 2023 Nari Shakti Vandan Act was presented in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

Congress Leader Raises Concerns Over Reservation Bill

In the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, the deputy leader of Congress, criticized the constitutional amendment bill related to the women's reservation act, arguing that it contradicts principles of women’s rights, caste census, the constitution, and federal structure. He accused the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using delimitation as a political tool. During the discussion on the 'Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill 2026', 'Delimitation Bill 2026', and 'Union State Law (Amendment) Bill 2026', Gogoi insisted that the government should implement women's reservation based on the current Lok Sabha strength of 543 starting from 2029.

Gogoi recalled that Sonia Gandhi had previously stated during discussions on the Nari Shakti Vandan Bill in the last Lok Sabha that while women's reservation should be enacted, it should not be tied to delimitation. He questioned what had changed in the last three years to alter the government's position.