New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta on Tuesday set a notable precedent during the Special Session on the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam by inviting Greater Kailash MLA Shikha Roy to preside over the proceedings.​

This gesture was intended to honour and underscore the importance of women’s empowerment, a central theme of the House’s discussions.​

Roy conducted the proceedings as the Chairperson-in-Chair, demonstrating the Assembly’s commitment to inclusivity and recognition of women’s leadership in legislative functioning.​

She expressed her gratitude to the Speaker for the opportunity and the trust reposed in her.​

This rare and symbolic initiative by the Speaker highlighted the Assembly’s dedication to promoting women’s representation and participation in governance.​

It stands as a meaningful example of translating legislative intent into practice, reinforcing the significance of the Special Session dedicated to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, the statement said.​

Earlier, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, her Cabinet colleagues and BJP legislators wore black bands on their arms and participated in a symbolic protest against the Opposition’s role in stalling the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha.​

Chief Minister Gupta led the protest, reflecting the Delhi Government’s unified stand in support of women’s rights and dignity.​

The demonstration within the Assembly premises sent a strong political and moral message against what was described as a deliberate attempt by opposition parties to obstruct a historic reform aimed at empowering women.​

Speaking on the occasion, Health and Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh strongly criticised the opposition for their conduct during the previous Lok Sabha session.​

The Minister said, “We strongly condemn the opposition for the stance they took regarding women’s empowerment. If there was genuine intent, they would have supported and debated the Bill constructively instead of creating excuses to derail it.”​

Highlighting the broader implications, the Minister said, “This is not just about a Bill; it is about the dignity and rightful representation of crores of women in our country. The opposition’s actions have once again exposed their anti-women mindset. They speak of women’s empowerment, but when the time comes to act, they step back.”​

He emphasised that such contradictions weaken public trust. “Political rhetoric cannot replace genuine commitment. The people of Delhi are aware and can clearly see how important issues are being sidelined through distractions.”

​–IANS

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