Opposition Unity Blocked Govt’s Plan, Says Priyanka Gandhi After Bill Defeat

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday said the Opposition’s collective stand had stopped what she described as an attempt by the Centre to reshape the country’s federal framework, following the defeat of a key constitutional amendment in the Lok Sabha.

Speaking at a press briefing in New Delhi, the Congress leader termed the outcome a ‘win for democracy’, arguing that coordinated action by parties in the INDIA bloc prevented the passage of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026.

The proposed legislation, which aimed to introduce 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament along with an expansion of seats, fell short of the required two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha.

The Bill received 278 votes in favour and 211 against after an extended debate.

Main Arguments Put Forward by Priyanka Gandhi

Priyanka Gandhi alleged that the government’s intentions went beyond women’s representation and were linked to broader electoral calculations. She also criticised remarks made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the debate, claiming their statements reflected political motives behind the legislation.

The Congress General Secretary and Wayanad MP further questioned the timing of the Special Session, noting it coincided with ongoing Assembly elections, and suggested the move aimed at gaining political advantage.

Raising concerns about women’s issues, Priyanka Gandhi referred to past incidents and said the government’s record did not match its claims of supporting women. She urged the Centre to bring back an earlier version of the women’s reservation proposal that had wider political backing, without linking it to delimitation or census-related provisions.

Priyanka Gandhi also pointed to rising household costs, stating that inflation continues to place a burden on women across different sections of society.

Her remarks come as a political confrontation escalates between the ruling National Democratic Alliance and opposition parties, with both sides accusing each other of politicising the issue of women’s representation.

The debate over the bill and its provisions will likely remain a key political issue in the coming weeks.

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