India’s Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which would have fast‑tracked a 33% women’s reservation in legislatures, was defeated in the Lok Sabha on June 15, 2024.

The loss matters because it stalls a long‑standing effort to increase women’s representation in Indian elected bodies, a change that advocates say could reshape policy priorities and improve gender equity in governance.

The bill required a two‑thirds majority (66.7% of votes) to pass, but fell short of that threshold in the June vote [1].

It also marks the first time in 12 years that a constitutional amendment introduced by the Modi government has been rejected by Parliament [2].

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "The defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill is a loss for women, not a failure of the government."

Opposition leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "Hold Parliament on Monday, bring the old bill, let's see who is anti‑women."

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi said, "You call them Hindus but you don't give them any place in the country."

The 33% reservation target was intended to fast‑track gender parity, moving the current 14% average of women legislators toward the constitutional goal set in 1993. With the amendment defeated, the push for a women‑reserved seat quota will return to committee discussions, and activists warn the delay could cost a generation of political participation.

The defeat also signals a potential shift in parliamentary dynamics, as the ruling party must now negotiate with opposition members to secure the super‑majority needed for future constitutional changes.

“The defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill is a loss for women, not a failure of the government.”

What this means: The failure to pass the amendment keeps women's representation in Indian legislatures at current low levels, delaying policy reforms that could benefit gender equity. It also illustrates the challenges the ruling party faces in achieving super‑majority consensus, potentially prompting more coalition‑building for future constitutional initiatives.