Priyanka Gandhi Advocates for Women's Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha

In a recent Lok Sabha session, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi expressed unwavering support for the Women's Reservation Bill while raising concerns about the central government's intentions. She highlighted the importance of genuine representation and women's empowerment, referencing historical efforts by the Congress party. Priyanka also criticized the ruling party's political tactics and called for the bill's implementation, urging the Prime Minister to reflect on his stance. This discussion not only centers on the bill but also touches upon broader issues of political integrity and representation in governance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 18:47 IST

Support for Women's Reservation Bill

On Thursday, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi expressed her support for the Women's Reservation Bill during a Lok Sabha session, while also questioning the intentions of the central government. She emphasized that the Congress party firmly backs the bill, leaving no room for doubt regarding their stance. Targeting the ruling party, Priyanka remarked that the political maneuvering surrounding the Women's Reservation Bill would astonish even Chanakya if he were alive today.

The Essence of Representation

Priyanka Gandhi pointed out that the issue extends beyond just the Women's Reservation Bill; it is fundamentally about ensuring genuine representation and commitment to women's empowerment. She noted that the concept of a women's quota has historical roots, initially proposed by Motilal Nehru. Criticizing the central government, she stated that while Prime Minister Modi may claim he does not seek credit, women cannot be misled.

Questioning the Intentions Behind the Bill

She further asserted that the matter transcends political claims, raising questions about the intentions behind the bill. Priyanka mentioned that Rahul Gandhi had written to the Prime Minister urging the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill. She recalled previous attempts led by Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2010, when the bill was passed but failed to gain approval in the Lok Sabha.

Accusations Against Amit Shah

Priyanka accused Home Minister Amit Shah of political cunning, quipping that if Chanakya were alive today, he would be taken aback by such deceit. She asserted that the ongoing discussions in the Lok Sabha are not solely about the Women's Reservation Bill but also about delimitation.

Historical Context of Women's Reservation

In 2010, under the leadership of the late Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, the Congress party made another attempt to secure reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. Although it was passed in the Rajya Sabha, consensus was not reached in the Lok Sabha. In 2018, Rahul Gandhi wrote to Prime Minister Modi, stating that this reservation should be implemented by 2019. While the Prime Minister might mock Rahul's request, Priyanka believes he will reflect on his words upon returning home.

Clarifying Opposition Claims

Priyanka Gandhi noted that while Prime Minister Modi mentioned opposition in the house, he failed to clarify who exactly opposed the bill. She pointed out that it was the BJP that had opposed it. Years later, under the leadership of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, the Congress government successfully passed and implemented this law in Parliament.