Delimitation linked quota bill, a wolf in sheep’s clothing: Kanimozhi

Trichy: DMK MP K Kanimozhi slammed the BJP-led Union government for labelling the opposition as ‘anti-women' after the recent defeat of the delimitation-linked bill in Parliament. She challenged the government to implement the 33% women's reservation from the existing Lok Sabha constituencies without any delay.She was campaigning in the delta districts of Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur, on Sunday. "What they brought was not a real women's reservation bill. It was a wolf in sheep's clothing. It is nothing but an attempt to reduce Tamil Nadu's representation through constituency delimitation," she remarked.Kanimozhi also defended the DMK government, describing it as one that prioritises women welfare. She highlighted several welfare schemes including Magalir Urimai Thogai (women's monthly assistance), Magalir Vidiyal Payanam (free bus travel for women), and Pudhumai Pen (financial aid for girl students).She pointed out that Tamil Nadu is providing 50% reservation for women in local body elections. Kanimozhi recalled that former DMK president M Karunanidhi granted equal property rights to women and consistently fought for 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.Crediting Tamil Nadu and chief minister M K Stalin for exposing the true intent behind the bill, DMK's deputy general secretary declared, "It is time to chase away anyone who claims to provide women their reservation while secretly trying to snatch Tamil Nadu's rights."The MP observed that the BJP had not anticipated this defeat in Parliament. "Hence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is repeatedly claiming that the opposition defeated the women's bill," she added.Kanimozhi also criticised AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami for defending the bill and aligning with the BJP's allegations against the DMK. "The BJP has no concern for Tamil Nadu. But Palaniswami here is betraying the state openly," she remarked.