Mar 11, 2010

Women's Reservation Bill

I am not very well informed about all things 'political'. But as far as common sense, and my personal opinion go, I think this one-third reservation for women in the parliament is a step in the wrong direction. Shouldn't the focus be on 'empowering' women to rise to the positions of MPs and MLAs, rather than serving the opportunity on a platter?! And if our past is anything to go by, the situation's not gonna be much different from the lot of SCs, STs and OBCs! No amount of quotas have made their condition better. In fact, barring a few, they continue to languish in poverty; and if anything, their condition only worsens!

I don't see what good having 33% women in the parliament in going to do. Whatever happened to gender equality? This bill sends out a message that women are weak and can't really make it to mainstream politics without a crutch. So hey, instead of teaching them how to walk, let's distribute some fancy wheel chairs! Such a shame!

What needs to be enforced is nomination of candidates on the basis of merit. Irrespective of whether they are a man or woman. And if the so called 'education system' does its part, this should not be much of a problem, right? I know the solution isn't simple. But that's the whole point! Instead of looking for quick-fix remedies, we should be focusing on the bigger picture...

2 comments:

Runjoo said...

**instead of teaching them how to walk, let's distribute some fancy wheel chairs!**

priceless :) very very well written. and you echo my views in an uncanny view my dear :)

Runjoo said...

i meant uncanny way...lol