Kohima College holds first Youth Parl on ‘Women’s Reservation Bill’

Department of Political Science, Kohima College, successfully organised its first Youth Parliament, on the theme “33% Reservation for Women: Road towards Gender Empowerment and Inclusive Governance”.
A press release by the College stated that during the session, participants representing both ruling and opposition parties presented spirited arguments. Members of the ruling party emphasised that the 33% reservation for women in political institutions was a necessary step towards bridging gender gap in governance.
They argued that India, despite being one of the world’s largest democracies with women constituting nearly half its population, continues to witness poor representation of women in politics, with only about 15% at national level and less than 10% in many state assemblies.
Speakers also highlighted how societal barriers, domestic violence, and fear of harassment discouraged women from entering political life, calling the bill a progressive step towards correcting historical inequality.
The opposition however raised critical concerns about timing and implementation of the bill. They questioned the linkage of Women’s Reservation Bill to future census and delimitation exercises, warning that such provisions could delay its enforcement. Several speakers also pointed out the absence of sub-reservation for OBC women and cautioned against possibility of “elite capture” where urban or privileged women might dominate reserved seats while rural and marginalised women remain excluded.
Opposition members further argued that while they strongly supported women’s empowerment, true empowerment must arise from education, training, and social reform rather than dependency on reservation.
One speaker noted, “Political participation should come through competence and leadership, not gender-based entitlement. We have seen women leaders like Indira Gandhi and Jayalalithaa rise without reservation, proving that women can lead through merit”.
Speaker of the House for the session was Wati Lkr, a Political Science Honours student from the 3rd Semester, while panel of judges comprised of Dr. Konei Nakhro, Ase Yalie, and Kevinguno Rose, all associate professors from department of Political Science. The release added that welcome address was delivered by associate professor and head of the department of political science, Tiakumla Jamir.
Lenvishe of MA 1st Semester bagged the first prize, Kekhrievor, of BA 1st Semester bagged the second prize, and Vetazo Veswuh, BA 5th Semester, bagged the third prize, walking away with Rs. 2000, Rs. 1000, and Rs. 800, along with certificates, respectively. The event concluded with closing remarks by judges, who commended the department for initiating the Youth Parliament as a platform to nurture political awareness and democratic values among students.