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While the women's reservation bill faces opposition from many quarters, a large segment of Muslim women believe in the power of the bill


Dr Zeenat Shaukat Ali
Professor of Islamic studies,  St Xavier's College

This is a positive move from the government. It will create a platform for the women to speak about their rights. I believe it will change the face of Indian politics.
Her take on the protest
Most of the politicians protesting against the bill have women phobia. Though they talk about women's rights, they do nothing in reality.


Shabana Azmi
Actress and social activist
It's a giant leap in the direction of women's empower- ment. I congratulate all the political parties who supported the bill and also to those who have been fighting for it since the past 14 years. Though it is a very progressive step and will change the face of parliament, it shouldn't be taken as a clash between man and woman.

Her take on the protest
Some people are doing this with an intention to scuttle the bill. And those who are making the loudest voice against it haven't done a thing for women in their entire
political careers.

Lubna Salim
TV and theatre personality
I'm happy that after 14 long years the bill finally got passed in the Rajya Sabha. It will certainly benefit women from all sections of the society. I'm also pleased with the role of opposition parties, which supported the bill.

Her take on the protest
It's sad to know that a few parties, who have done nothing for Muslim women, are dema-nding reservation for them by protesting against the bill.