‘Respect For Mothers, Sisters Is Respect For Nation’: PM Modi On Women's Reservation Bill

Last Updated:April 16, 2026, 08:45 IST

The remarks come as Parliament convenes for a three-day special session from April 16 to 18 to fast-track the implementation of the women’s reservation law.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India is set to take a “historic step" towards women’s empowerment as the special session of Parliament begins, emphasising that “the respect for our mothers and sisters is the respect for the nation."

Speaking ahead of the session, PM Modi said the government is moving forward with determination to strengthen women’s participation in governance.

Focus On Women’s Reservation

The remarks come as Parliament convenes for a three-day special session from April 16 to 18 to fast-track the implementation of the women’s reservation law. The proposed plan includes expanding the strength of the Lok Sabha from the current 543 seats to a maximum of 850 to facilitate one-third reservation for women.

According to sources, up to 815 seats could be allocated to states and 35 to Union Territories, with the final number to be decided by a Delimitation Commission. The commission will also determine the allocation of seats reserved for women.

Changes Likely From 2029 Polls

The proposed changes are expected to come into effect from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Officials said seat distribution will be based on proportional representation, with the 2011 Census likely to serve as the reference point.

Sources added that southern states could see a relative advantage in seat allocation due to lower population growth compared to some northern states.

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