PM Modi, in a strongly worded address to the nation on April 18, launched a sharp attack on Opposition parties after the Women’s Reservation Bill failed to pass, accusing them of betraying both the Constitution and the aspirations of women.
My address to the nation. https://t.co/2Vyx15A4rx
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 18, 2026
Calling the legislation a crucial step for inclusive growth, Modi said the Bill was intended to deliver “justice and empowerment to the women of the 21st century” and described it as “the need of the hour.” He added that it was introduced with “clear and clean intention” to make women equal partners in India’s development journey.
Expressing disappointment over the outcome, the Prime Minister said the nation was witnessing how the “dreams and aspirations of women have been crushed,” adding that “Nari Shakti and the country’s progress have both taken a hit.” He also slammed the Opposition’s reaction in Parliament, stating, “What they did was not just thumping desks, it was an attack on the self-respect of women.”
Targeting parties like the Congress, DMK, TMC and Samajwadi Party, Modi termed them “criminals of the Constitution and women’s empowerment,” alleging they have historically obstructed efforts to bring in women’s reservation. “Congress hates the idea of women’s reservation and has always created hurdles,” he said, adding that the Opposition had “shown its true face to the nation.”
Modi further remarked that he had hoped Congress would “rectify its age-old mistake” and stand in support of women, but “they lost the opportunity to script history.” Accusing the Opposition of misleading the public, he said their actions had once again exposed their political priorities over national interest.
The Prime Minister’s address underscored a deep political divide over the issue, with the government framing the Bill as a long-overdue reform, while squarely blaming the Opposition for its failure.
