Modi Apologises Over Women’s Reservation Setback, Blames Opposition

April 18, 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said his government places national interest above all else, expressing regret that it could not secure passage of the amendment linked to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Addressing the nation, he apologised to “all mothers and sisters” for the setback despite what he described as sincere efforts by the government.

He criticised opposition parties, including Congress, DMK, SP and TMC, alleging that their actions in Parliament undermined both women’s empowerment and national interest. The Prime Minister said it was “deeply painful” to see the legislation defeated and accused these parties of celebrating a move that, in his view, weakened women’s rights and dignity.

Mr Modi asserted that the proposed amendment was essential to ensure balanced empowerment across regions North, South, East and West and to strengthen the voice of all states in Parliament by proportionately increasing representation. He maintained that the effort aimed at inclusive political participation was blocked by opposition unity.

He further warned that parties opposing the amendment were taking women’s power for granted and suggested they would face consequences for resisting women’s reservation.