Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday termed the defeat of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha an "unpardonable crime", alleging it was blocked in a manner that undermined women’s confidence. Addressing a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) rally in East Godavari district, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief said women across the country had pinned high hopes on the proposed legislation, which sought 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.
“All women had high expectations. The bill’s defeat has shaken their confidence. This is an unpardonable crime,” Naidu said.
He described the blocking of the bill as a “black day” in India’s democratic history and accused the Indian National Congress of leading what he called a “national betrayal.”
Naidu said greater representation of women in legislative bodies would strengthen governance, ensure respect, and promote inclusive development. “We expected to see one-third of elected representatives as women. That would have transformed the system,” he said.
He also urged women to raise their voices against the bill’s defeat and said the NDA would take the issue to the grassroots. “This movement will go to every household to create awareness,” he added.
Naidu was joined at the rally by Andhra Pradesh BJP president PVN Madhav and leaders from NDA allies, including the TDP, Janasena, and the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Referring to assurances from Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, Naidu said southern and smaller states would not face injustice under the proposed reforms, including a planned increase in Lok Sabha seats.
He further alleged that parties opposing the bill were driven by “chauvinistic attitudes” and unwilling to support women’s advancement. “If we do not respect women, whom will we respect?” he said.
The Constitution amendment bill failed in the Lok Sabha on Friday after it did not secure the required two-thirds majority needed for passage.
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