New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said Parliament was on the verge of creating “new history” as it prepares to amend the Women’s Reservation Act this week to enable its implementation from 2029.

Addressing the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ in New Delhi ahead of a three-day special sitting of Parliament, Modi said the move would fulfil long-pending aspirations and future commitments toward equality and social justice.

He said the upcoming decision would help build an India where social justice is not merely a slogan but becomes part of governance, workplace culture and decision-making.

Referring to the original law passed in 2023, Modi said it had received unanimous support from all political parties, with even the Opposition strongly demanding that it be brought into effect by 2029.

The Prime Minister said April 16, 17 and 18 would mark a decisive moment, as Parliament would consider and pass the required amendments during the extended Budget session.

He described the proposed changes as one of the most significant decisions of the 21st century and said it would be a true tribute to the strength and dignity of women.

The Women’s Reservation Act, officially called the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, was passed in September 2023 and provides for one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

According to the proposed amendments, the strength of the Lok Sabha would rise to 816 seats, with 273 reserved for women.

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Under the original framework, implementation was linked to the delimitation exercise after the 2027 Census, which meant reservation may not have taken effect before 2034. The fresh amendments aim to advance implementation so that the quota can be enforced from the 2029 general elections.