The Indian Parliament's special session undertook on its second day, a momentous occasion coinciding with the sacred Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. This day carries a deep sense of auspiciousness and new beginnings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi implied the possibility of "historic decisions" being made within the confines of the new parliament building.
The day's agenda featured several significant events. First, a photo session was scheduled for all Members of Parliament within the old Parliament premises, a moment of reflection and continuity. Subsequently, a joint meeting of MPs from both houses convened in the Central Hall before proceeding to the new Parliament.
A noteworthy detail in this transition was Prime Minister Modi's intention to carry a copy of the Constitution, a symbol of India's democratic principles and values, as he made the journey from the old to the new Parliament. The special session also saw participation from eminent dignitaries. Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, BJP MP Maneka Gandhi, and Shibu Soren, a leader of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, were slated to address the joint sitting of Parliament within the new Parliament building.
One of the day's prominent themes revolved around the Women's Reservation Bill. Leaders from various opposition parties vocally expressed their support for the bill, underscoring the urgent need for gender equality in the nation's legislative bodies. The proposed bill, which aims to reserve 33% of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reportedly received clearance from the Cabinet. However, an official announcement regarding this decision is still pending.
The Women's Reservation Bill, originally introduced in 1996, carries the objective of ensuring that one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies are allocated to women. After nearly three decades since its initial introduction, the bill now stands on the point of becoming law.
In addition to the Women's Reservation Bill, several other subjects of national importance were under discussion. These encompassed topics such as "One Nation One Election" and the prospective alteration of the country's name from India to Bharat. Leaders representing diverse political parties united in their hope for the successful passage of the Women's Reservation Bill during this special session. They acknowledged its pivotal role in fostering gender equality within India's political landscape.
As the special session unfolds, the nation awaits with bated breath, anticipating the outcome of these significant deliberations. In a country with a rich democratic heritage, the realization of gender equality in Parliament stands as a milestone on the path to a more inclusive and representative democracy.
