MLA Pulwama, Waheed Para, today addressed the Assembly during discussions on grants for the horticulture and agriculture departments. In his speech, he called for the urgent implementation of 33% reservation for women in elected bodies, ranging from Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to the Assembly.
Para pointed out that despite the significant contributions of women in various sectors, their representation in elected positions remains alarmingly low and negligible. He stressed that this lack of representation prevents women from having an equal voice in shaping policies and decisions that impact their lives and communities.
The MLA further explained that introducing a 33% reservation for women would not only address this inequality but also create a much-needed space for empowerment, ensuring that women actively participate in political processes. Para emphasized that this move would foster a more inclusive and democratic society, where both men and women have equal opportunities to contribute to governance and public service.
In the context of the ongoing discussions on grants, he reiterated that the implementation of this reservation must be prioritized alongside other policy changes aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and ensuring equitable growth across J&K.
