Assam Assembly Passes Resolution for Women's Legislative Reservation

Guwahati: The Assam Assembly adopted a resolution on May 26 to implement a one-third reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. The proposal passed via voice vote, with the state government planning to initiate this shift once the current delimitation process is complete.

Women and Child Welfare Minister Ajanta Neog introduced the resolution, arguing that women remain underrepresented in high-level decision-making bodies despite their societal contributions. As the state's longest-serving woman legislator, Neog emphasized that the change is essential for progress in the 21st century.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supported the motion by citing Assam's history of respecting women, referencing figures like princess Joymoti and freedom fighter Kanaklata. He also pointed to the economic impact of nearly 40 lakh women currently working in state self-help groups. During the session, Sarma criticized the Congress party for failing to pass similar legislation while they held power at the federal level.

While members across party lines supported the idea of gender-based reservation, the opposition challenged the government's decision to link the policy to delimitation. Representatives from the Congress, Raijor Dal, and Trinamool Congress argued that implementation should occur immediately. These legislators also noted the importance of ongoing efforts to support women through literacy initiatives and existing local government quotas.