By IANS,
New Delhi : Over 500 people, mostly women, from 22 different organisations came together in the capital Wednesday to draw the government’s attention to the pending women’s reservation bill.
Centre for Social Research, Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), All India Women’s Conference and Women’s Political Watch were among those who participated in the gathering at Parliament street. Women sat holding posters and banners, urging passage of the bill in parliament.
“We will also submit a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh demanding that the bill seeking 33 percent reservation for women in legislatures be tabled and voted upon in this very half of the budget session,” said Ranjana Kumari, chairperson of the Centre for Social Research.
‘Women form 50 percent of the electorate in India. This election year is an opportunity for the passage of the Bill and evidencing inclusion in practice,” the memorandum said.
It also stated: “In conclusion, we seek follow-up of Rajiv Gandhi’s 73rd/74th amendments to its logical end – that is by ensuring women’s 33 percent representation in parliament and the assemblies.”