Lok Sabha Clears Introduction Of Women’s Reservation Bill After Division Vote

The Lok Sabha on Thursday approved the introduction of the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, aimed at enabling women’s reservation and facilitating delimitation, following a division of votes demanded by the Opposition.

Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal tabled the Bill in the House, marking a key step in the legislative process. The move follows an earlier round of voting in which Members of Parliament supported bringing the Bill forward for discussion.

Alongside it, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, came up for introduction.

The Opposition insisted on a recorded vote as the House took up the motion.

Following the use of vote slips, the tally stood at 251 in favour and 185 against, as announced by Om Birla, who noted that the figures remain subject to change.

Subsequently, members again utilised vote slips. A total of 333 members cast their votes, and none abstained in that round.

The motion required a simple majority to pass, which it secured amid heightened political engagement.

The Lok Sabha generally relies on voice votes to pass motions.

When members contest the outcome, they conduct a formal ‘division’ and use the Automatic Vote Recorder system. The system registers votes under ‘Ayes’, ‘Noes’, and ‘Abstain’.

Lok Sabha Secretary General Utpal Singh briefed members on the system, stating, “The votes will not be registered if the votes are kept pressed before the first gong or if they aren’t pressed simultaneously till the second gong. Members can check their vote on the individual results board.”

He further added, “If any member wishes to change the vote, they may call for voting through slips.”

The development marks a significant step as Parliament proceeds with key legislation related to women’s representation and electoral delimitation.

Also Read: PM Modi Calls Special Parliament Session ‘Historic’ For Women’s Reservation Push