The Congress on Monday said the defeat of the proposed amendment linked to women’s reservation in the Lok Sabha had exposed the government’s attempt to push delimitation under the cover of women quota, asserting that the move was aimed at gaining a political advantage rather than expanding representation for women.Senior Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh, said the development marked a setback for what they termed “bulldozer-style politics” and an affirmation of constitutional principles.The remarks came days after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, which proposed implementing women’s reservation along with increasing Lok Sabha seats to 816, failed to secure passage in the Lower House.Ramesh said the proposal was not a straightforward measure for women’s representation but an attempt to introduce delimitation without adequate clarity. He questioned why assurances given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, that no state would lose representation, were not explicitly included in the text of the Bill.According to the Congress, the legislation lacked transparency and sought to alter the political balance among states, particularly raising concerns about the representation of southern regions.Kharge accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of presenting the move as pro-women while acting contrary to democratic values. He said women had been granted voting rights soon after Independence and accused the present government of attempting to reshape that legacy for political gain.The party reiterated that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, passed unanimously in September 2023, remains unimplemented despite repeated demands for its rollout ahead of the 2024 General Elections.Congress leaders questioned the timing of the recent notification of the law, calling it delayed and indicative of a lack of intent.The Congress demanded that the Centre immediately implement women’s reservation based on the current strength of the Lok Sabha. It also called for the introduction of a fresh amendment Bill in the upcoming monsoon session or earlier, if Parliament is convened.The party also sought an all-party meeting after April 29 to place the government’s proposals in writing and ensure wider consultation before any further legislative steps are taken.