Women’s Reservation Bill – Complete Notes

Introduction

An initiative to provide 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies
This is the result of a long-standing political and social struggle

Historical Background

1987–88 → Introduction of reservation for women in local bodies
1992 → 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments
33% reservation in rural & urban local bodies
In many states:
Reservation for women extended up to 50%

Progress in Parliament

Initially:
Deve Gowda Government → Bill introduced (not passed)
2010 → Passed in Rajya Sabha (not in Lok Sabha)
2023 → “Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam”
106th Constitutional Amendment
Passed in Lok Sabha with 454 votes

Key Features

33% reservation → Lok Sabha + State Legislative Assemblies
Sub-reservation for SC/ST women
Lok Sabha seats: 543 → around 850 (increase)

Implementation

Planned implementation from 2029
Some debates:
Census
Delimitation

Current Status of Women (Important for Exam)

Lok Sabha: 1951 → ~5%
Lok Sabha: 2019 → ~19% (highest)
Rajya Sabha: ~12–13%
State Legislative Assemblies: Average only 10%

Low representation of women in politics

Importance

Women constitute around 50% of the population
But:
Low share in political power
This bill:
Ensures political equality

Impacts

Initially:
Higher chances for women from political families
Later:
Independent political growth of women
Proven by local body institutions

Political & Social Perspective

Women have emerged as a decisive force in elections
Many welfare schemes are women-centric

Important Points for Exam

106th Constitutional Amendment – 2023
33% Women Reservation
73rd, 74th Amendments – 1992
2029 – Possible year of implementation
Women’s representation is still low

Summary

Women’s Reservation is a key step towards an egalitarian democracy
Enhances women's political empowerment
Creates long-term equality
Despite initial challenges, ensures long-term progress of women