Bhopal: In a politically charged special session of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on April 27, the House passed an official resolution granting 33 percent reservation to women by voice vote, even as Chief Minister Mohan Yadavlaunched a scathing attack on the Congress party over its historical stance on women’s empowerment.
Calling the move a tribute to ‘Nari Shakti’, the Chief Minister asserted that the resolution reflects the spirit of inclusive governance and aligns with the vision behind the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which he described as a symbol of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “steely resolve.”
CM Yadav’s Sharp Political Attack on Congress
Addressing the House, CM Yadav accused the Congress of consistently undermining women’s aspirations. He alleged that the party had “stabbed women’s capabilities and ambitions in the back” and maintained a negative approach toward Nari Shakti.
Referring to historical decisions, he claimed that Congress governments stalled women’s reservation for decades and even enacted constitutional provisions that restricted expansion of parliamentary representation. He criticized what he termed a “parallel system” of governance and questioned Congress leaders’ intent, remarking that the party must apologize to women.
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In a pointed remark, he said Congress leaders “change colors like chameleons,” adding that even a chameleon would feel embarrassed by such behavior.
Resolution Passed Amid Heated Debate
Despite sharp exchanges between treasury and opposition benches, the resolution supporting 33 percent reservation for women in legislative bodies was passed through a voice vote.
CM Yadav emphasized that the BJP government has consistently worked to enhance women’s dignity by appointing them to key positions and expanding their participation across governance structures.
मध्यप्रदेश देश में महिला सशक्तिकरण का आदर्श मॉडल बनकर उभरा है: CM @DrMohanYadav51 @mp_wcdmp #CMMadhyaPradesh #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/wEbdBMuv1J
— Chief Minister, MP (@CMMadhyaPradesh) April 28, 2026
‘Women Will Hold Congress Accountable’
The Chief Minister warned that women across the state are closely watching political developments and will hold the Congress accountable for its past decisions.
Invoking religious symbolism, he said even Lord Mahakal would not forgive those who “steal women’s rights.” He reiterated that women’s empowerment is not merely a political agenda but a moral commitment.
Debate on Reservation, Delimitation, and Representation
CM Yadav argued that earlier constitutional amendments during the Congress era had effectively blocked expansion of Lok Sabha seats, thereby delaying implementation of women’s reservation.
He stated that had those provisions not existed, the Lok Sabha strength could have increased to around 850 seats, with women’s representation rising significantly. In Madhya Pradesh, he noted, over 130 Assembly seats could have been reserved for women under such a framework.
Criticism Over OBC and Political Legacy
The Chief Minister also accused Congress of being anti-OBC, citing historical political developments and leadership decisions. He contrasted this with the BJP’s record, highlighting leaders such as Uma Bharti, Babulal Gaur, and Shivraj Singh Chouhan who rose to top positions.
He further alleged that Congress pursued divisive politics and appeasement, which, according to him, hindered inclusive development.
Women-Centric Schemes and National Leadership
Highlighting achievements under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM Yadav pointed to a shift from “women’s welfare” to “women-led development.”
He cited the rise of women in leadership roles, including Droupadi Murmu and Nirmala Sitharaman, and referenced major schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Sukanya Samriddhi, Jan Dhan Yojana, and PM Ujjwala Yojana.
He also mentioned increased participation of women in sectors ranging from governance to defense and sports, asserting that women are central to India’s socio-economic transformation.
Madhya Pradesh as ‘Mahila Sashaktikaran Pradesh’
CM Yadav described Madhya Pradesh as a model state for women’s empowerment, invoking historical figures like Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Durgavati, and Rani Avantibai.
He highlighted:
- 50% reservation for women in local bodies
- Women serving as District Collectors in 17 districts
- Increasing representation in police leadership roles
- Over 5.3 million beneficiaries under Ladli Laxmi Yojana
- Financial assistance of ₹1,500 to 12.5 million Ladli Behens
He added that women are leading nearly 48% of startups in the state and actively contributing to MSMEs and self-help groups.
Focus on Safety, Employment, and Welfare
Reaffirming commitment to women’s safety, CM Yadav said the state has:
- 57 One Stop Centers, with 8 more approved
- Legal provisions including death penalty for rape of minors
- Expanding women’s participation in police and industry
He also highlighted employment initiatives, including large-scale recruitment drives and industrial policies reserving jobs for women.
Healthcare improvements, including maternal care and reduced mortality rates, were also emphasized as key achievements.
Political Messaging Meets Policy Push
The special session underscored both a policy milestone and a sharp political confrontation, with the resolution on women’s reservation becoming a focal point for broader ideological debate.
As the state moves forward, the implementation of women-centric policies and the political discourse around them are likely to remain central themes in Madhya Pradesh’s governance narrative.
