'Don't give it political colour': PM Modi bats for women’s quota amendment, urges MPs to rise above politics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, April 16, addressed the Lok Sabha during a debate on the proposed amendment to the women’s reservation law, calling it a “historic moment” in India’s democratic journey and urging lawmakers not to politicise the issue.

Speaking amid a charged debate over the Union government’s move to tweak the quota framework, Modi said India’s development cannot be measured by infrastructure alone, but must also reflect the participation of women in policymaking.

“In India’s development journey, MPs have got an opportunity to make women part of decision-making,” he said, stressing that including women in governance is essential to building a developed nation.

The Prime Minister also cautioned against giving the issue a political colour, asserting that women’s reservation in legislatures should be seen as a national priority rather than a partisan matter. “There is no need to politicise women’s reservation,” he said.

Adding a personal note, Modi said, “I come from a most backward community, but it is my responsibility to take everyone along,” underscoring the need for inclusive policymaking.