Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 8: Members of the Hindi film industry have welcomed the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill, expressing strong support for increased representation of women in politics.

Actor Suniel Shetty emphasised the importance of empowering women across all spheres, stating that efforts related to education, safety, and representation should be prioritised to strengthen their role in society.

Actor-director Riteish Deshmukh also backed the move, saying he supports any initiative that benefits women and contributes to national progress.

Actress Isha Koppikar described the development as a positive step, highlighting her support for gender equality while also noting that merit should remain an important factor in recognition and opportunities.

Actor Arya Babbar called the decision a welcome move, while casting director Mukesh Chhabra admitted he was previously unaware of the development but expressed appreciation after learning about it.

The Women’s Reservation Bill, officially known as the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023, provides for 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislative assemblies. It also includes sub-quotas for women from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes within the overall reservation.

Its implementation is tied to the next delimitation exercise, which will take place after the first census conducted following the law’s enactment.

Seen as a landmark reform, the legislation aims to significantly improve women’s participation in India’s political system, where their representation has historically remained limited. First introduced in 1996, the bill faced several hurdles before finally securing approval from both Houses of Parliament, marking a major step in strengthening democratic inclusivity in the country.