Assam Assembly Passes Resolution Supporting 33% Reservation for Women in Legislatures

The Assam Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution supporting the implementation of 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, in line with the provisions of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023.

Key Highlights

• The resolution was introduced by Women and Child Development Minister Ajanta Neog.
• It seeks the early implementation of women’s reservation after the completion of the next Census and subsequent delimitation exercise, as mandated under the law.
• Assam has joined several other states in formally supporting the operationalisation of women’s reservation in legislatures.

About Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023

• It is the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023.
• It provides 33% reservation for women in:
  • The Lok Sabha.
  • State Legislative Assemblies.
  • The Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
• Reservation will also apply within seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
• The reservation will come into effect only after:
  • The first Census conducted after the commencement of the Act, and
  • A subsequent delimitation exercise.

Significance

• Women constitute nearly half of India’s population, yet their representation in legislatures remains relatively low.
• Greater political participation of women can strengthen:
  • Inclusive governance.
  • Gender-responsive policymaking.
  • Democratic representation.
• The legislation is considered a major step towards achieving the constitutional vision of equality and empowerment of women.

Related Constitutional Provisions

• Article 14 guarantees equality before law.
• Article 15(3) empowers the State to make special provisions for women and children.
• Articles 243D and 243T provide reservation for women in Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies.

Exam Hook (Prelims)

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023:

1. It provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
2. The reservation becomes operational immediately after the enactment of the law.
3. The reservation will also apply to seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 1 and 3 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

One-Line Wrap

The Assam Assembly’s resolution reinforces support for the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, aiming to enhance women’s political representation and strengthen inclusive democracy in India.