Backs Women’s Reservation, Warns Against “Arbitrary Delimitation”; Calls for Constitutional Integrity
Srinagar, April 18: J&K Awami National Conference Senior Vice President Muzaffar Shah on Saturday described the rejection of three key Bills linked to the Centre as a significant moment in India’s democratic evolution, calling it the first major pushback since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which he reiterated was “manifestly unconstitutional.”
Invoking the vision of the Constitution’s framers, Shah underscored the strength and foresight embedded in India’s founding document. “Our republic derives its resilience from a Constitution crafted with deep understanding of the country’s diversity and regional complexities. That wisdom must not be overshadowed by narrow political considerations,” he said.
While expressing unequivocal support for the Women’s Reservation Bill, Shah emphasised that enhancing women’s political representation must not come at the cost of democratic principles. “Even if the quota exceeds 33 percent, we have no objection,” he stated, cautioning, however, against linking the legislation to any arbitrary or premature delimitation exercise without a fresh census.
“Such a move would undermine transparency, weaken democratic institutions, and compromise national interest,” he warned.
Referring to the post-2019 delimitation in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said the exercise had drawn widespread criticism for relying on the 2011 census and deviating from established norms. “It was widely viewed as politically driven rather than guided by demographic fairness or constitutional propriety,” he remarked, adding that the people ultimately asserted their democratic will despite such measures.
Reaffirming his party’s stand, Shah said the Awami National Conference remains firmly committed to women’s empowerment. “Our support for reservation is unequivocal, but women must not be used as instruments for advancing hidden political agendas,” he said.
On Article 370, Shah maintained that its abrogation remains an “unfinished constitutional issue” requiring sincere redress. “It was not merely a provision, but a constitutional bridge acknowledging J&K’s unique identity. Its restoration is essential to rebuild trust and uphold the federal spirit,” he asserted.
He added that genuine national integration must be rooted in dialogue and respect for constitutional guarantees. “The aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be acknowledged within any meaningful democratic process,” he said.
Concluding, Shah called for safeguarding institutional integrity. “Democracy is sustained not just by laws, but by the intent behind them. Upholding constitutional principles and respecting regional sensitivities is fundamental to the strength of our republic,” he said.