Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mayawati, has expressed her support for the 33% women’s reservation bill. She emphasized that while it’s not the ideal 50% quota, it marks an important step towards ensuring women’s rightful representation.
The Support for the Bill
During a press conference in Lucknow, Mayawati welcomed the bill. She acknowledged the delay but still hailed it as a significant beginning. Mayawati stated, “If not 50%, 33% is a good start.” She emphasized that this move would at least give women a fair representation in both the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
BSP’s Stance on Women’s Reservation
Mayawati reminded the public that her party has consistently advocated for a 50% reservation for women. However, no other political party has agreed to this demand. She also expressed gratitude to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who granted women equal voting rights under universal adult suffrage.
Despite the bill’s delay in 2023, Mayawati’s BSP still welcomes the law. She called it a much-needed provision for historically marginalized women, especially those from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
Addressing the Delay
Mayawati pointed out that while the bill’s passage had been delayed, it was still a crucial move. She emphasized that specific reservation for women, especially those from the oppressed communities, would be both historic and necessary. “This provision should be implemented, particularly for women who have been pushed to the margins,” she added.
Concern Over Rising Crimes Against Women
Mayawati also criticized the lack of concrete policies and political will to empower women. She accused the government of merely making statements about women’s empowerment while failing to take meaningful action. She also raised concerns about the increasing crimes and violence against women in India.
Criticism of Congress
Mayawati strongly criticized the Congress party for delaying the women’s reservation bill. She pointed out that caste politics influenced Congress’s policies post-independence. “The Congress government initially rejected the bill due to narrow caste interests,” Mayawati said. “Later, it passed the bill in pieces.” She also noted that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had resigned as India’s first Law Minister due to the lack of reservation for OBCs and the government’s failure to take solid steps for women’s safety and well-being.
