In an unprecedented turn of events, the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ or the Women’s Reservation Bill received unanimous support in the Rajya Sabha today, securing an impressive 215 votes in favor. With not a single vote against it, the bill is now poised for Presidential approval after having been previously passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

This constitutional amendment bill, which marks a significant milestone in Indian political history, seeks to allocate 33% of seats in both the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies exclusively for women. This long-awaited move comes nearly 27 years after various iterations of the bill had languished in the realms of legislative limbo.

The resounding support and absence of any opposing votes in the Rajya Sabha underline the broad consensus and recognition of the importance of promoting gender diversity and women’s participation in India’s legislative bodies. As the bill awaits the final nod from the President, the nation is on the brink of a transformative change that will empower and elevate women’s representation in the Indian political landscape.

At the grassroots, over 15 lakh women get elected and contribute to governance in India. As of now, around 107 countries—to name some: Australia, Germany, the UAE, the UK, and Sweden— have reserved quota for women in government. India has now joined the list. Some countries like Rwanda, Cuba, Mexico, New Zealand, and the UAE have 50% or more in their Lower Houses. However, 134 out of 185 countries have women representation less than 33%. And 91 countries have less than 25% women participation. India has around 15%. All that is set to change. India, when the Women Reservation is implemented, post the census and delimitation, will elect 33% women legislators, who will have a decisive say in policy making.