New Delhi, April 16 (IANS) Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday appealed to the Opposition not to spread rumours regarding the delimitation bill, stating that a wrong message is being spread and urged them not to do that.

This comes as a special session of Parliament has been convened to discuss amendments related to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. A three-day special sitting of the extended Budget Session is set to begin later in the day, with discussions centred on proposed Constitutional amendments linked to the implementation of the women’s reservation law.

Speaking to reporters, Kiren Rijiju said, “We are fully prepared, and a meaningful debate will take place in Parliament. I believe every party will present its views. The main issue is to provide reservations for women. Granting 33 per cent reservation in Parliament will be historic, and India will set an example in promoting women’s empowerment.”

He further stated, “There is no need for unnecessary opposition. Raising unrelated issues like delimitation is misleading people. No one will face any loss due to this, and all concerns will be clarified during the debate.”

Rijiju also expressed concern over misinformation being spread in South India.

“A wrong message is being circulated, and I urge everyone not to do so. I am confident that all parties will support the Women’s Reservation Bill,” he said.

Appealing once again to the Opposition, Rijiju added, “Do not spread rumours about the delimitation bill or use it as a pretext to oppose the Women’s Reservation Bill. Accurate data regarding delimitation will be presented during the Lok Sabha debate. I am not sharing figures at this moment, but everything will be clarified.”

Meanwhile, the government is expected to introduce three amendment Bills aimed at operationalising the legislation, which was passed in 2023 to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

Earlier this week, the Central government shared with MPs the text of the Constitution (131 Amendment) Bill, 2026 or the proposed amendment to the Women Reservation Bill, which aims to raise Lok Sabha seats to 850 — including members from states and union territories.

The Bill proposes a cap of 815 on the number of members chosen by direct election from constituencies in the states. For UTs, the Bill says, “Not more than 35 members to represent the union territories, chosen in such manner as Parliament may by law provide”.

–IANS

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