Nagaland Passes Bill Reserving 33 Per Cent Seats For Women In Urban Local Bodies

In a significant move, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed the Nagaland Municipal Bill 2023, aiming to reserve 33 per cent of seats in urban local bodies (ULBs) for women.

The bill, presented in September, excludes provisions related to taxes on lands and buildings and reservations for the offices of chairpersons in urban local bodies.

As reported by Hindustan Times, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that the new law marks the beginning rather than the end, emphasizing the crucial role of women in the administration of urban local bodies.

He acknowledged the challenges faced in aligning ULB elections with customary practices and constitutional mandates, emphasizing the government's commitment to peaceful resolutions without resorting to violence.

This development comes after the Supreme Court, in April, criticised the Nagaland government and state election commission for failing to implement its directive on women's reservation.

The bill underwent scrutiny by a select committee of the assembly before its unanimous approval.

This decision resolves a longstanding issue, paving the way for municipal elections in Nagaland after a hiatus of two decades.