Kharge Urges PM Modi on Delimitation Talks After Elections

Introduction

In a significant move, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the government’s approach to delimitation discussions tied to the women’s reservation law. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive political dialogue once the current assembly elections are completed.

Request for All-Party Meeting

In his letter, Kharge underscored the Opposition’s call for an all-party meeting post-April 29 to address crucial matters surrounding delimitation. This appeal arises in light of the government’s plan for a special Parliament session from April 16 to 18 to discuss amendments related to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

Lack of Consultation Raises Concerns

Kharge expressed his discontent regarding the government’s decision to hold a special session without prior consultations with opposition parties. He stated, "This special sitting has been called without taking us into confidence, and your government is seeking our cooperation again without revealing any details on the delimitation."

Importance of Delimitation Details

The Congress leader stressed that meaningful discussions about the historic Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam would be futile without clarity on the delimitation process. He remarked, “Without details of the delimitation and other aspects, it would be impossible to have any useful discussion on this historic law.”

Questioning Government’s Claims

Kharge also challenged the government’s assertion of having engaged in dialogues with political parties, asserting, “All the Opposition parties have been urging the Government to call an All-Party meeting after the current round of elections is over on April 29th 2026.”

Criticism of Session Timing

Further, Kharge criticized the timing of the special session, which happens to fall during ongoing state elections. He claimed, “The calling of a special sitting during the ongoing state elections only reinforces our belief that your government is hurrying the implementation of the bill to gain political mileage rather than truly empower women.”

Conclusion

Kharge concluded his letter by reiterating the Opposition’s stance, urging the government to take a collaborative approach. “If the government is serious about strengthening democracy and moving forward together, it should convene an all-party meeting after April 29 to discuss the delimitation process associated with the amendments under the women’s reservation law,” he stated.

By emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and detailed discussions, Kharge aims to foster a more inclusive approach to legislating significant reforms that impact women in India.