Call for a separate share for marginalised women during the parliamentary debate on the issue
PATNA — As debate grows ahead of the special session of Parliament on Wednesday (16 April), the demand for fair representation of marginalised women has come into focus, with leaders calling for specific safeguards within the women’s reservation law.
Akhtarul Iman, state president of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen in Bihar, has urged the central government to include a separate reservation for Muslim and Dalit women while discussing amendments to the Women’s Reservation Act.
Speaking on Monday, he said that without such provisions, women from weaker and minority backgrounds may not get proper representation. “There should be a clear share for Muslim and Dalit women so that they are not left behind,” he said.
The demand comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to all political parties to participate in discussions and support amendments to the law during the upcoming session.
However, Akhtarul Iman questioned the timing of the move. He said, “At a time when elections are due in several states, bringing this issue now raises questions. It may influence women voters.”
He also called on the Election Commission of India to take note. “The Election Commission should consider whether such announcements during election time are appropriate,” he said.
Criticism of BJP
The AIMIM leader also criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of focusing on power rather than governance.
He said, “The BJP wants power at any cost. This politics is affecting governance.” Referring to recent developments in Bihar, he added that the state could face a loss after Nitish Kumar steps down from the chief minister’s post.
“Bihar will suffer due to this change. For the last two months, cabinet meetings have not been held properly,” he claimed.
Akhtarul Iman also said that the proposed changes in the women’s reservation law should not ignore minority women. “Reservation should benefit all sections. If Muslim and Dalit women are not given a separate share, they may not get proper opportunities,” he said.
He further alleged that the move could be used to influence voters in upcoming elections. “Through this, there is an attempt to attract women voters in five states,” he said.
On West Bengal Elections
Speaking about his party’s plans in West Bengal, he said that AIMIM may not be in a position to form the government but would contest to raise issues of the people.
“We want to raise the voice of the people inside the Assembly and question decisions that go against them,” he said.
As discussions on the women’s reservation law move forward, voices from minority communities are asking for clear and fair inclusion, so that representation reflects the diversity of the country.
