JMM Accuses Modi Government of Political Conspiracy Over Women's Reservation Bill
Ranchi: As the Parliament prepares for a special three-day session starting Thursday to pass constitutional amendments for implementing the Women's Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam), the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government, calling the move a "political conspiracy."
JMM's Strong Opposition and Demands
Addressing the media at the party office, JMM's central general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya declared that the party will oppose the bill both inside and outside Parliament. The JMM has demanded that the Modi government first conduct a caste-based census and delimitation before attempting to implement the 33% women's reservation.
Bhattacharya stated, "It's the biggest ploy of the Modi government and is aimed at duping women at large. It's a political conspiracy like electoral bonds, through which it had legalised money extraction for its political mileage."
Historical Context and Accusations
The JMM office bearer highlighted that in 2023, when the Women's Reservation Bill was first introduced in Parliament, they had wholeheartedly welcomed it because the government promised to complete the census and delimitation first. "Now in 2026, it is suddenly in a hurry to pass it without caste census and delimitation," he said.
He further accused the BJP of ulterior motives, saying, "The whole idea is to decrease seats in places where BJP doesn't have any sway and increase its strongholds. BJP has nothing to do with the interest of women." Bhattacharya emphasized, "Without a proper caste-based census, how will reservation be introduced?"
Call to BJP Allies and Political Dynamics
In a bold move, the JMM called upon BJP's allies at the Centre—the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) (JDU)—to immediately withdraw their support from the central government if they are serious about women's welfare in any way.
On the other hand, the BJP has been actively promoting the bill through various public connect programs. On Wednesday, Ranchi MP Sanjay Seth, who is also the Union Minister of State for Defence, organized a women's bike rally in anticipation of the special session.
Implications and Broader Context
This development sets the stage for a contentious parliamentary session, with the JMM's accusations adding fuel to the ongoing political debate over women's representation. The demand for a caste-based census reflects deeper concerns about equitable reservation policies in India.
As the nation watches, the outcome of this session could significantly impact gender and social justice in Indian politics, highlighting the complex interplay between political strategies and genuine reform efforts.
