Hyderabad: Hyderabad District Congress Committee President Syed Khalid Saifullah on Monday rejected BJP allegations against the Congress on the Women’s Reservation Bill and accused the Centre of deliberately delaying its implementation.
Saifullah said the BJP was spreading “false propaganda” and asserted that the Congress had consistently supported women’s empowerment. He stated that the Women’s Reservation Bill was passed in September 2023 with Congress backing, yet its rollout was stalled by linking it to Census and delimitation conditions.
He addressed a press conference at Gandhi Bhavan along with constituency in-charges Rajesh Kumar Pulipati, B Nagesh, Mohammed Mujeebullah Shareef, Shaik Akbar and K Ravi Raj.
Women’s Reservation Bill delay linked to Census
Saifullah said the Women’s Reservation Bill delay showed lack of intent by the Centre. He argued that the 33 per cent quota could have been implemented before the 2024 general elections if there was political will.
He further alleged that the BJP was attempting to portray delimitation as a women’s reservation measure. However, he described this as misleading and politically motivated.
The Congress leader also raised concerns over delimitation. He warned that it could reduce representation for southern states due to population differences. He said states such as Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala could lose influence, while northern states might gain disproportionately.
Women’s Reservation Bill delay sparks representation concerns
Reiterating the party’s stand, Saifullah said the Congress had always supported 33 per cent reservation for women. He stressed that women’s reservation remained an issue of equality, justice and empowerment.
He highlighted the Congress track record, citing leaders such as Indira Gandhi and Pratibha Patil. He also referred to figures like Annie Besant, Sarojini Naidu and Nellie Sengupta, who served as Congress presidents.
Saifullah questioned the BJP to name a woman who had held a similar leadership role in the party. He added that Congress governments had introduced reforms such as 33 per cent reservation in local bodies through the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments.
He also pointed to laws related to maternity benefits, domestic violence and workplace safety as part of the party’s record.
Criticising the BJP, Congress leaders alleged failure in ensuring justice in crimes against women. They urged the ruling party to focus on governance instead of blaming the opposition.
Saifullah said the Congress would continue to push for immediate implementation of the Women’s Reservation Bill without linking it to delimitation. He added that the party would oppose any move that weakened fair political representation, especially for southern states.