Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday, took a sharp jibe at the Opposition, stating that he is ready to "write a blank cheque" for them to take credit on the Women's Reservation Bill. He further said that the Opposition was free to print 'whoever's photo they wanted.'
“If you believe the Women’s Reservation Bill gives me political leverage, you are right, but if you want the credit, I am ready to give you a blank cheque. Take all the credit, print whoever’s photo you want, we will get it done with government funds," Modi said during his address in the Lok Sabha.
Top quotes from PM Modi
“Discussion on this important Bill began this morning. Many members have raised various issues, and we will provide detailed and accurate information to the House. There are some defining moments in a nation’s life — when the mindset of society and the capability of leadership come together to turn them into lasting legacies. In the history of India’s parliamentary democracy, this is one such moment.”
“When this idea was first conceived 25–30 years ago, it should have been implemented. Today, we have brought it to a mature stage.”
“Ours is the mother of democracy. Our democratic journey spans thousands of years, and all of us in this House have the opportunity to add a new dimension to it.”
“This is an important moment in the history of India’s parliamentary democracy. It should have been implemented 20–25 years ago. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to bring half of our population into national policymaking.”
“In the 21st century, India is moving forward with renewed confidence. A defining moment has arrived, linked to our resolve of building a ‘Viksit Bharat’. This vision goes beyond infrastructure or economic indicators — it requires that 50% of the population actively participates in policymaking.”
“We are already late due to various reasons. Whether we admit it publicly or not, we all recognise this. I would advise those trying to politicise this issue — the women of the country have not forgiven those who opposed this Bill.”
"I'd also like to offer advice to those who think only in political terms. Ever since the discussion about women's reservations began in our country, and every election that followed, whoever opposed this right for women, the women of the country have not forgiven them."
“I want to tell all my fellow parliamentarians that we should not be under the illusion or pride that we are giving anything to the women of this country. Not at all, this is their right.”
"In India's development journey, MPs have got an opportunity to make women part of decision making."
"India is marching in the 21st century with confidence."
"A developed India does not mean only good infrastructure but participation of women in policy making."
"This will be in favour of the country's democracy, it will be in favor of the country's collective decision-making, and we will all be entitled to the credit."
“It is very obvious that if you oppose this bill, then I will get political benefits from it. However, if we walk together, nobody will benefit from it. So, I don’t want the credit. If the bill is passed, I am ready to make hoardings with everyone’s photo. I am ready to give you all the credit.”
