THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 3: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren of denying repeated requests for a meeting to discuss the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) and the need for a special Assembly session.
Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi said the party had been trying since April 30 to secure an appointment through General Secretary Amar Kumar Bauri, aiming for a meeting on May 3. Despite clearly stating the purpose, the party received neither a meeting slot nor a response from the Chief Minister’s office.
Calling the situation “unfortunate,” Marandi said the BJP wanted to urge the state government to convene a special session of the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, with the Governor’s consent, to pass a resolution supporting the Women’s Reservation Bill and send it to the Central Government.
With no appointment granted, the BJP has now formally written to the Chief Minister outlining its demands.
Focus on Women’s Reservation Bill
Marandi said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was introduced in Parliament during a special session held from April 16 to 18. The bill proposes 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, along with an increase in total seats.
In Jharkhand, this would raise Lok Sabha seats from 14 to 21, with 7 reserved for women, and Assembly seats from 81 to 121, including 41 reserved for women.
BJP Targets CM Soren
Marandi also criticised Hemant Soren for allegedly opposing the bill, saying it was expected that the Chief Minister would support such a significant measure for women’s empowerment.
He added that passing a resolution in the Assembly and sending it to the Centre could help in reintroducing the bill in Parliament and ensuring broader representation.
During the press conference at the BJP state headquarters, Marandi also shared the contents of the letter sent to the Chief Minister.