Gangtok, April 19: The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has expressed disappointment over the failure of the Women’s Reservation Bill to pass in Parliament, while reiterating its firm support for the proposal.
Reacting to the development, party spokesperson and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Jacob Khaling Rai, stated that the party had remained solely focused on the issue of women’s rights while backing the legislation. He said the party did not consider any other factors while supporting the bill, emphasising its commitment to gender representation.
Drawing a parallel with Arjuna, Rai remarked that the party’s approach mirrored the archer’s singular focus on his target, explaining that SKM concentrated exclusively on securing rights for women through the legislation.
He added that the proposed bill could have brought additional advantages for Sikkim, including the possibility of increased representation in the State Legislative Assembly, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, thereby strengthening the state’s political standing.
Despite these potential benefits, Rai underlined that the party viewed women’s rights as paramount. He described women as central to societal development and expressed regret that the legislation did not secure sufficient support. The party also criticised those who opposed the bill, while voicing hope that similar measures would be passed in the future.
Reaffirming its stance, SKM stated that it would continue to advance women’s empowerment in the state by promoting greater representation and opportunities for women in governance as well as within the party structure, alongside sustained efforts towards their development.
