The enactment of the Constitution (One Hundred and Sixth) Amendment Act 2023 is intricately linked to a periodic delimitation exercise. This process, which adjusts the territorial boundaries of constituencies, is essential for the bill's implementation. However, it could delay the activation of the quota by several years.
The delimitation process is currently synchronized with the decadal Census. Since the next Census is postponed and expected to take place post-2024, the quota might not be effective until the 2031 Census data is available.
There is an ongoing debate among various political parties regarding the introduction of a sub-quota for women from Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Muslim communities, who are currently under-represented. This adds a layer of complexity to the legislative process.
With the Census and delimitation anticipated to occur after the 2024 general elections, the reservation's implementation might be delayed beyond this period.
This is not the first attempt to pass such a bill. Efforts have been made since 1996, but they have repeatedly faltered due to opposition and the dissolution of the respective Lok Sabhas.
Various studies indicate that increased female participation in politics can significantly influence policy-making, especially in areas pertinent to women. This could lead to profound social changes.
The bill has received the necessary votes and awaits the President's assent to become law. However, these critical issues could influence its timely and effective implementation.
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