Here’s What PM Modi Said After Women’s Reservation Bill Setback: Sharp Attack On Opposition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Saturday, April 18, at 8:30 PM, a day after the Women’s Reservation Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha, and made it clear that the government will continue efforts to ensure greater representation for women in politics.
Calling the development disappointing, PM Modi said the NDA remains committed to pushing forward the women’s quota, despite the setback in Parliament.
The proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill aimed to introduce 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, along with an increase in total seats following delimitation.
During the voting, 298 MPs supported the Bill while 230 opposed it, falling short of the required two-thirds majority. Reacting to this, the Prime Minister strongly criticised opposition parties, accusing them of blocking a crucial reform that could have empowered women across the country.
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In his address, PM Modi described the opposition’s stance as “anti-women” and alleged that parties driven by dynastic politics were unwilling to support broader participation of women outside their own circles.
He said that women across India are closely watching political developments and will respond accordingly.
The Prime Minister also highlighted what he called a pattern of resistance to reforms by opposition parties, naming Congress, DMK, TMC, and SP. He accused them of repeatedly delaying or opposing key policy decisions in the past, ranging from reservation issues to national reforms.
At the same time, PM Modi acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the Bill’s failure and apologised to the women of the country, stating that the government had made sincere efforts to pass the legislation.
The debate around the Bill has sparked strong political reactions across parties. Opposition leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, criticised the Prime Minister’s speech, while leaders like Mahua Moitra and Akhilesh Yadav also responded with counterclaims.
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Taking a broader political swipe, he accused the Congress of historically delaying major reforms. From border issues to OBC reservation and One Rank One Pension, he claimed that Congress had a long record of “latkana, bhatkana, atkana” — a culture of delay and obstruction.
He also alleged that opposition parties spread misinformation on issues like CAA, delimitation, and electoral reforms, and continue to oppose initiatives such as One Nation One Election and actions against infiltration.
In Tamil Nadu, PM Modi launched a specific attack on the DMK, accusing it of promoting a “family-first” model of governance, claiming that while one family’s wealth increased, public debt also surged.
The speech triggered immediate political reactions.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge termed it a “desperate” address, while TMC leader Mahua Moitra countered claims on women’s representation. Akhilesh Yadav also hinted at a detailed response from the opposition.
