Rajya Sabha Passes Women’s Reservation Bill In Historic Move

In a historic move, the Rajya Sabha passed the Women’s Reservation Bill with 214 members voting in support and none against on Thursday. The landmark bill was passed by the Upper House a day after it was unanimously cleared by the Lok Sabha. Earlier, all Rajya Sabha MPs – cutting across party lines – verbally supported the bill even as some Opposition members termed it an ”election gimmick.” It now needs the signature of the President to make 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies official. The MPs welcomed the passing of the Bill with thumping of desks. BJP members raised slogans hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and greeted him after the legislation was passed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a ”defining moment’ in the country’s democratic journey as the Rajya Sabha Rajya Sabha passed the Women’s Reservation Bill unanimously after a day-long debate. The Prime Minister also congratulated 140 crore Indians and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all Rajya Sabha MPs who voted for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Ahead of the voting in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said, “This bill will lead to a new confidence in the people of the country. All members and political parties have played a significant role in empowering women and enhancing ‘Nari Shakti’. Let us give the country a strong message.”