Mumbai, April 16: A special session of Parliament focusing on the Women’s Reservation Bill commenced on Thursday. Congress leader Hussain Dalwai emphasized the necessity of providing reservation for women, stating that this is a widely shared opinion. However, he criticized the proposal to base the delimitation on the 2011 census, calling it inappropriate.
In a discussion in Mumbai, Dalwai argued for a new census or survey. He pointed out that southern states have improved medical facilities and education, leading to population control, yet they face a reduction in Lok Sabha seats. He described this as unjust, expressing concerns that southern states fear losing representation while northern states may gain seats.
Dalwai also commented on the economy, which he claimed has slipped from the fourth to the sixth position. He noted that job losses have worsened conditions, and inflation has surged. The wealth gap has widened, with the rich becoming richer and the poor facing increased hardships, yet this issue remains largely ignored.
He questioned how education can be effectively delivered when schools and healthcare facilities are being shut down. He accused the ruling party of prioritizing the interests of the upper caste and wealthy classes, suggesting that communal tensions are being stirred for political gain.
Regarding the Women’s Reservation Bill, Dalwai expressed skepticism about achieving the necessary two-thirds majority for its passage. He highlighted that Muslims constitute 15% of the population and should have representation. He called for political parties to ensure a certain percentage of candidates from Muslim and other backward classes. He pointed out the absence of any Muslim ministers, questioning the fairness of this situation.
On the alleged conversion case involving an IT company in Nashik, Dalwai condemned the incident, stating that societal attitudes towards women must change to prevent such occurrences. He insisted that strict action should be taken against those responsible, asserting that the issue is not confined to any one religion.
Dalwai also addressed the new rules for auto-rickshaw drivers set to take effect on May 1, suggesting that while learning Marathi is important, making literacy mandatory is excessive.
In light of the Bengal elections, he accused the Election Commission of aiding the BJP and called for a change in its leadership.
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