Centre Tables Women’s Reservation, Delimitation Bills in Parliament; Debate Underway

NEW DELHI, Apr 16: A three-day special sitting of the extended Budget Session of Parliament commenced today, with the House beginning debate on proposed constitutional amendments linked to the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

The government has introduced three amendment Bills aimed at operationalising the legislation passed in 2023, which provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

Earlier this week, the Centre circulated to Members of Parliament the text of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes changes to the Women’s Reservation framework, including an increase in the total strength of the Lok Sabha to 850 members, incorporating representation from States and Union Territories.

The proposed Bill suggests capping the number of members elected directly from constituencies in States at 815. For Union Territories, it provides for “not more than 35 members,” to be chosen in a manner that Parliament may determine through law. (Agencies)