Published: 11th May, 2024
Context
Nagaland's Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections were stalled for 20 years due to opposition to the reservation of 33% of wards for women. Previous attempts to hold elections faced strong protests and violence.
Background: Women's Reservation in Nagaland
- Legal Battle: Nagaland resisted implementing 33% reservation for women in municipalities and town councils, mandated by Article 243 T (3) of the Constitution.
- Naga Mothers Association and People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) fought a 15-year legal battle to enforce the constitutional provision.
- Obstacles: Nagaland's government and prominent sections of Naga society opposed reservation, citing cultural customs and constitutional provisions.
- The tribal bodies argued that women have traditionally not been part of decision-making bodies in Naga customs.
- According to them, allowing reservation for women would violate special provisions granted to the state under Article 371A of the Constitution.
Intervention of Supreme Court:
- In 2016, Supreme Court intervened, stayed the High Court's order, and revived the directive to hold elections within one month.
- State government, along with civil society groups, initiated violent protests against the reservation.
- SC bench, led by Justice Kaul, expedited the case in 2023, finally mandating elections to be held by June 2024.
Fact Box: Article 371A of the Constitution
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UPSC PYQ: Q: “The reservation of seats for women in the institution of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian political process.” Comment (2019) |
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