Raipur: The inauguration of India’s new Parliament building instils hope for the awaited Women’s Reservation Bill to be passed. This bill is expected to empower women in the country’s landscape. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has also expressed his views on this matter. The implementation of this bill will not only boost women’s representation at the level but also in state legislatures across the country.
CM Bhupesh Baghel stated, “The bill has recently received approval from the Union Cabinet. Subsequently discussions will be held regarding its execution, followed by the delimitation process.” He emphasised the importance of discussions in Lok Sabha to establish a basis for delimitation especially as a census has not yet taken place. He mentioned that there are still steps to be taken and suggested that delimitation may occur around 2027 which will lead to an increase in seats allocated for women.
The implications of the Women’s Reservation Bill for Chhattisgarh are also being deliberated upon. Currently Chhattisgarh consists of 90 assembly seats and 11 Lok Sabha seats. As per the provisions of this bill, up to 33 percent of seats will be reserved for women.
This implies that about three, out of the 11 Lok Sabha seats and 29 to 30 assembly seats may be allocated for women. During this initial evaluation the ultimate result will become evident in time.