Pratibha Patil On Women’S Reservation Bill: ‘Transformative step’: Former President Pratibha Patil writes to PM Modi expressing support for women’s reservation bill | India News
New Delhi: Former President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has written a letter to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi Expressing her strong support for the implementation of the Women’s Quota Bill, she called it a ‘transformational step’ for India’s democracy.Patil, who served as the country’s first woman and 12th president from 2007 to 2012, said the ‘landmark’ Nari Shakti Bandana Adhinyam constitutional amendment would significantly strengthen women’s representation in legislative bodies and deepen democratic participation.
“India has consistently witnessed the extraordinary contribution of women in every sphere of national development, often overcoming strong social and structural barriers,” Patil said, adding that the Act formally recognizes their immense potential and institutionalizes pathways for their leadership at the highest levels of administration.“This marks a decisive step towards eradicating historical inequalities and building a more just and equitable society,” he added. Her comments came ahead of a special session of Parliament starting on April 16, where amendments to the law to enable one-third reservation for women and a proposed limitation bill are expected to be taken up in Parliament.In her letter, Patil described the Act as “much more than a legal provision” that reflects a collective determination to advance gender equality and promote inclusive governance. “I am confident that this progressive initiative will ignite the aspirations of countless women, especially those from rural and marginalized communities, to play leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to nation building.”Highlighting the broader impact, she noted that greater representation of women in Parliament and state legislatures would enrich debate, lead to more balanced policy-making and inspire future generations to participate in public life.“I appreciate the leaders and all stakeholders who have worked tirelessly over the years to make this long-cherished dream a reality. These landmark reforms will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a more equitable, empowered and inclusive India. Best wishes for sustained efforts towards women’s empowerment and national progress,” added Patil.Its approval came amid political controversy, with Sonia Gandhi criticizing the timing of the bill and calling it an “underhand tactic”.Patil, however, expressed confidence that the reform would encourage women, especially from rural and marginalized communities, to play leadership roles and contribute to nation building, while signaling India’s commitment to gender justice and inclusive democracy.
