WOMEN'S RESERVATION BILL (NARI SHAKTI VANDAN ADHINIYAM 2023)

The Indian Parliament in September 2023 approved the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023 known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam to provide a minimum of one-third of Lok Sabha seats as well as State Legislative Assemblies and National Capital Territory of Delhi for women. Whether through their historical origins or their legislative history, much remains to be learned with respect to this important legislative change, including socio-political considerations such as SC/ST sub-quotes, delimitation and census, OBC (Other Backward Castes) sub-quotes, and the fifteen year sunset provision. Ultimately, the author evaluates the potential for substantive political change that will come from this legislative enactment as it relates to gender equality within Indian politics and governance.