Nagaland BJP Mahila morcha bats for women’s reservation

Nagaland State BJP Mahila Morcha president Tsachola Rothrong on Monday expressed optimism that Nagaland could see an increase in parliamentary representation following the upcoming delimitation exercise, while strongly advocating for greater participation of women in politics.
Addressing a press interaction at the BJYM office here, Rothrong said the State was likely to have two seats each in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha after delimitation. Responding to queries on states with single-seat representation, she maintained that Nagaland’s representation would expand post-delimitation.
Highlighting the significance of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, Rothrong termed the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023 as a “historic and transformative reform” that guarantees 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, including reserved categories.
She expressed confidence that the expansion of parliamentary seats would coincide with increased political participation of women, marking a new phase in the State’s democratic growth.
According to her, the legislation reflects a long-standing commitment fulfilled under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Stressing that the reform goes beyond symbolism, Rothrong said it ensures institutional empowerment of women and signals a shift from women-led development to women-led governance. She added that the BJP has consistently prioritised women’s empowerment as a core governance agenda.
Rothrong also highlighted the impact of key central schemes such as Jan Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat Mission and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, stating that these have significantly improved the socio-economic conditions of women. She pointed to increased participation of women in self-help groups, entrepreneurship, education, and even the armed forces as indicators of wider transformation.
Focusing on Nagaland, she said the Act holds special significance for Naga women, who, despite their contributions, have lacked adequate representation in legislative bodies. She maintained that the provision would open avenues for leadership and policy influence.
Calling for collective support, Rothrong urged all sections of society to strengthen inclusive democracy, stating that women’s empowerment transcends political lines. She further informed that the reservation is likely to be implemented by 2029 after completion of the delimitation process.
On acceptance in Nagaland, she said the 33 per cent reservation has already gained ground through Urban Local Body elections, describing it as a “breakthrough” for wider acceptance.
As part of a statewide awareness campaign, Rothrong announced that bike and scooty rallies, along with padyatras, would be held across districts on April 15, followed by Mahila Sammelans on April 16. In Dimapur, the rally will begin from the DMC office at 6:30 am, passing through Dhobinala, Clock Tower, Duncan Basti and the old DC office before returning.
She also encouraged educated women to take risks and actively participate in politics, stressing that their involvement is vital for informed and inclusive governance.