Prime Minister seeks all-party support for Nari Shakti Bill, shares light moment with Dharmendra Yadav, calls Akhilesh Yadav ‘friend’ during debate
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday made a strong pitch for the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, urging opposition parties to extend full support and warning that those opposing the legislation would have to “pay the price” in the long run.
Speaking during the debate, the Prime Minister emphasized that ensuring representation for women in policymaking is a national necessity, adding that such a step should have been taken decades ago.
“Those who oppose this bill will have to pay the price in the long run,” PM Modi said in the House.
Light Moment in Lok Sabha Amid Heated Debate
During his speech, Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav briefly interrupted the Prime Minister, leading to a lighter exchange in the House. Responding with a smile, PM Modi remarked:
“I am grateful to you, Dharmendra ji… Akhilesh Yadav is my friend, so he sometimes helps.”
The remark drew laughter across the House, with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav seen acknowledging the comment.
‘Constitution is Supreme, Responsibility is Inclusive’
The Prime Minister also spoke about his social background, stating that he comes from a very backward community, and highlighted his commitment to inclusive governance.
“My responsibility is to take all sections of society along. For me, the Constitution is supreme,” he said.
He further noted that the strength of the Constitution has enabled individuals from all sections of society to hold positions of responsibility.
Appeal for Consensus, No Politicisation
PM Modi urged all political parties to rise above politics and support the bill unanimously, recalling that the issue of women’s representation has been discussed since the time of Mulayam Singh Yadav.
He stressed that involving 50 per cent of the country’s population in decision-making processes is critical for strengthening democracy and governance.
Focus on Women’s Grassroots Leadership
Highlighting the broader impact, the Prime Minister said recognising and empowering women at the grassroots level would have long-term benefits for the political system and governance.
He described the bill as a historic step that would leave a lasting legacy for Indian democracy and called for unity in ensuring its passage.
