Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described the proposed women’s reservation legislation as one of the most significant decisions of the 21st century, calling it a landmark step dedicated to “Nari Shakti” during the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.

The Prime Minister said the move represents a long-awaited transformation in India’s democratic structure and will place women’s empowerment at the centre of governance and decision-making.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said the country stands at a defining moment in its legislative journey.

"Amidst these crucial milestones in our nation's development journey, India stands on the brink of making one of the most significant decisions of the 21st century. I say with great responsibility that this decision will be among the most important of our time. It is a decision dedicated to the empowerment of women, a true tribute to the strength and reverence of womanhood."

He added that the reform would help turn long-standing aspirations into reality, making social justice a “natural part” of governance.

"Our country's Parliament is close to creating a new history. A new history that will realize the visions of the past, that will fulfill the resolutions of the future. A resolve for an India that is egalitarian, where social justice is not merely a slogan, but a natural part of our work culture, our decision-making process."

Push for women’s empowerment in politics

Referring to decades of discussion around women’s representation, the Prime Minister said the idea has been supported across political parties and generations.

"The need to provide reservations for women in democratic structures has been felt by everyone for decades. This discourse has been going on for nearly 4 decades. It includes efforts by all parties and many generations. Every party has advanced this idea in its own way."

He further noted that the goal is to implement the proposed framework by 2029, with structured discussions scheduled in Parliament.

"We are keeping the 2029 deadline in mind... a comprehensive discussion on this is going to take place in Parliament from April 16th."

The Parliamentary discussion is expected to run from April 16 to 18, marking a crucial phase in the legislative process.

The proposed changes relate to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, which seeks to operationalise women’s reservation in legislative bodies. A national-level ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ has been organised in support of the amendment.

The event saw the presence of several senior leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi.