Parliament Special Session & Women’s Reservation

1. What is Parliament?

Parliament is the central legislature of India.
It consists of two Houses:
Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
The power to make laws lies only with these two Houses.

Textbook concept: In a democracy, the legislature is a key institution.

2. Constitution Amendment Bill

A law that brings changes to the Constitution is called a Constitution Amendment Bill.
Article 368 specifies the procedure to amend the Constitution.

Requirements for passing:
Special Majority
More than 50% of the total members
2/3rd majority of members present and voting

3. Women Reservation

33% of seats are reserved for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
The objective is to increase women’s political participation.

Current status:
Law passed in 2023
However, it will be implemented only after Census and Delimitation.

4. Delimitation

Redrawing of electoral constituencies is called delimitation.
It is done based on population.

Article 81 deals with the number of Lok Sabha members.

Currently:
543 → up to 850 seats (proposed)
This ensures proportional representation.

5. Political Issue

Southern states are opposing this move.
Since they have successfully controlled population growth,
in the new delimitation,
their representation may decrease.

This is known as the “Representation vs Population” debate.

6. Bills Introduced

Three important bills:
131st Constitution Amendment Bill – 2026
Delimitation Bill – 2026
Union Territories Amendment Bill – 2026

7. Importance in Democracy

Increases women’s participation in politics
Changes in people’s representation
Raises debate on Federalism

Summary (Key Points)

Parliament – Law-making body
Article 368 – Procedure for constitutional amendment
33% Women Reservation – Yet to be implemented
Delimitation – Redrawing of constituencies
Article 81 – Structure of Lok Sabha
543 → 850 seats – Proposed increase
Southern States – Concern over reduced representation