The Women’s Reservation Bill, 2023: A Legislative Milestone Toward Gender-Equal Governance in India

Abstract

Despite constitutional guarantees of equality, women in India remain significantly underrepresented in political institutions. The Constitution (128th Amendment) Act, 2023—commonly referred to as the Women’s Reservation Bill—seeks to correct this structural imbalance by reserving one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for women. This paper analyzes the socio-political context, constitutional provisions, global comparative frameworks, historical resistance, and anticipated impacts of the legislation. While the bill marks a milestone in institutionalizing gender equality and strengthening democratic legitimacy, its delayed implementation and the absence of intersectional safeguards—such as sub-quotas for OBC and minority women—highlight persistent challenges. Ultimately, the bill represents a foundational step toward inclusive governance, but sustained political commitment is essential to realize its transformative potential.