Hema Malini reacts sharply as Women’s Reservation Bill hits roadblock: 'I request you all to...'

Actor and Member of Parliament Hema Malini has reacted to the Women’s Reservation Bill failing to pass in the Lok Sabha, describing the development as a “sad day for women.” Taking to social media, she expressed disappointment over the outcome and reflected on the expectations surrounding the proposal.

In her post, Hema wrote, "Yesterday’s Parliament session saw the Women Reservation Bill stalled in Parliament." She further added, "A sad day for women who were looking forward to greater participation in national affairs." The statement underlined the broader concern around women’s representation in politics.

Calling the outcome personally disheartening, she said, "Personally, I was quite disappointed having spoken in Parliament about the importance of the Bill just before the vote was taken." Her remarks come at a time when the bill had generated discussion across political and public spaces.

She also urged citizens to tune in to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled address. "I request you all to listen to his address," she wrote, referring to the 8:30 pm broadcast. The appeal added a political context to her response following the developments in Parliament.

Actor Kangana Ranaut also reacted to the outcome, terming it a “personal loss.” She said, "Nothing more sad and painful than this has ever happened today." In her remarks, she criticised the situation and expressed concern over what she described as a setback for women.

The Women’s Reservation Bill aims to reserve 33 percent seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women, with the objective of increasing their participation in legislative processes. The proposal has been debated for years and remains a significant policy discussion point.

In the recent session, the bill did not secure the required two thirds majority needed for a constitutional amendment. While it received more votes in favour than against, it fell short of the threshold necessary for passage. As a result, the bill could not move forward in the House.

The outcome has triggered varied reactions, with public figures and political representatives voicing their views on its implications for women’s representation in governance.