OBC lobby won't let women into House | Roadmap today

New Delhi: The UPA government made a commitment on the floor of the House last year that the Women’s Reservation Bill will be taken up at the end of the Budget session of Parliament.

However, the powerful OBC in Parliament has closed ranks yet again to scuttle the move. All the splinter groups of the Janata Parivar, irrespective of their political affiliations, have come together in opposing the Bill.

"Rather than focusing on price rise, this Government is raking up issues. If they want to play with fire, I accept the challenge," said JD(S) leader Sharad Yadav.

Despite all major political parties joining hands to amend the Constitution for reserving 33 per cent seats in the legislature, the Bill is yet to be converted into law.

"Ask BJP and Congress how many seats they have given to women in Karnataka," said SP leader Amar Singh.

Every time the Bill has been tabled, Parliamentarians have ensured there’s no debate and they are hoping for a repeat this time around as well.