The Lok Sabha witnessed a sharp debate over the Women’s Reservation Bill between ruling leaders and opposition members. Moreover, Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav strongly opposed the proposed legislation during the discussion.
At the same time, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav made a major claim while mentioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Furthermore, his remarks added intensity to the already heated exchange inside the House.
Dharmendra Yadav Raises Concerns Over Inclusion
Initially, Dharmendra Yadav argued that similar situations earlier emerged in Kashmir and Assam under reservation policies. Therefore, he claimed that the government now attempts to replicate such conditions across the country.
He further demanded inclusion of backward classes and Muslim women within the reservation framework. Meanwhile, he clearly stated that the opposition would oppose the bill until such inclusion happens.
Additionally, he asked the government to withdraw the current bill and implement the 2023 version instead.
Government Responds With Constitutional Argument
However, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju responded firmly to Dharmendra Yadav’s statements during the debate. He said that religion-based reservation goes against constitutional principles and should not be discussed.
Moreover, he emphasized that policies must address all women across the nation rather than focusing on specific religious groups.
Akhilesh Questions Timing and Census Intent
Subsequently, Akhilesh Yadav accused the government of rushing the bill without proper groundwork. He argued that caste census results could influence reservation demands if the government conducted such an exercise.
Therefore, he suggested that the government avoids caste census to control future demands.
In response, Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that census work has already started. Furthermore, he confirmed that the government has decided to conduct caste census as well.
Amit Shah Counters Opposition Claims
Meanwhile, Amit Shah warned that certain statements could create confusion and concern among citizens. He remarked that the ongoing process counts households and not their caste identities.
Additionally, he took a dig at the Samajwadi Party, saying they might even assign caste to homes if given a chance.
He also reiterated that the Constitution does not allow reservation based on religion.
Debate Intensifies Over Representation
During the discussion, Akhilesh Yadav questioned whether Muslim women form part of the “half population.” In response, Amit Shah said the party could give all tickets to Muslim women if it wished.
Finally, Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Prime Minister Modi identified himself with backward classes when seeking their votes.
