‘The BJP is doing politics of lies and showmanship in the name of women’s reservation’
KISHANGANJ/MUMBAI — A fresh political confrontation has emerged over the women’s reservation bill, with All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Waris Pathan launching strong criticism of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and questioning both the timing and intent of the proposed legislation.
Speaking at an event in Kishanganj on Sunday, the senior AIMIM leader described the move as politically driven. He said, “The BJP is doing politics of lies and showmanship in the name of women’s reservation.”
Pathan raised questions about why a special parliamentary session was held for the bill at a time when several states are witnessing elections. “When elections are going on in five states and all leaders are busy campaigning, what was the need to bring a three-day session for this bill?” he asked.
He also claimed that the issue could be used for political messaging. “BJP leaders will now go to the people and make it an emotional issue,” he said.
Commenting on the address to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pathan said he expected a focus on development. “People thought the prime minister would speak about development, but the speech did not meet those expectations,” he said.
In a sharp remark, he added, “I watched the speech for three minutes, and then I stopped and went to watch the IPL.”
At the same time, Pathan emphasised respect for women, stating, “We have always respected women and will continue to do so till our last breath. It is believed that paradise lies under the feet of the mother, and there can be no greater respect than that.”
He further criticised the BJP, alleging that its commitment to women’s welfare was not genuine. Referring to past incidents, he said, “If the BJP truly respected women, the prime minister would have apologised to Zakia Jafri and Bilkis Bano.”
Leaders from the ruling party have, however, rejected such criticism. They maintain that the women’s reservation bill aimed at increasing participation of women across communities and argued that policy decisions must remain within constitutional limits.
The debate over the bill has also included wider questions about whether reservations should include specific provisions for minority and backward communities. While some opposition leaders have called for inclusive measures, the government has reiterated that religion-based quotas are not permissible under the Constitution.
Political observers say the sharp exchange reflects broader disagreements over representation, electoral timing, and the direction of policy. One analyst noted, “The issue is not only about passing a bill but also about who benefits from it and how representation is ensured.”
As discussions continue, the women’s reservation bill remains at the centre of political debate, with competing claims over fairness, intent, and inclusion shaping the national conversation.
