In a historic setback for the Modi government, the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill failed to pass in Parliament on April 17, 2026. The bill sought to introduce a 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, alongside a controversial delimitation of parliamentary constituencies.
The proposed amendment required a two-thirds majority in both houses, but fell short amid fierce opposition from regional parties, particularly those from southern India. Critics argued that the delimitation clause would disproportionately benefit northern states with higher population growth, tilting the political balance away from the south.
Supporters, including the ruling BJP, maintained that the bill was essential for gender equality and fair representation. However, opposition leaders labeled it a "slap to the notion of a Union of States," warning that it would undermine federal principles.
The failure of the bill has significant implications for the 2029 general elections, as the status quo remains on both women's reservation and seat redistribution. Political analysts suggest the government may need to renegotiate the bill's terms to secure broader consensus.