Being In Opposition

I had no political stake in the outcome, yet I found satisfaction—not just with the result, but with the role the Opposition played in Parliament this time.

For context, the Constitution Amendment Bill on women’s reservation—aiming to fast-track the 33% quota before the 2029 Parliamentary elections—was defeated in the Lok Sabha on April 17, 2026.

On the surface, the intent was commendable: Reservation of Seats for Women. However, through sustained debate, the Opposition successfully argued that the Bill masked a larger objective: facilitating a Delimitation exercise that could expand total seats in Parliament in a way that favors the states where the ruling party holds strength. This timing was clearly strategic, with an eye on the next elections.

This is where a mature Opposition matters. It applies not only in Parliament but in any democratic organization—political, social, or otherwise. Maturity, resilience, righteousness, and purpose orientation are essential. However, maturity is the most critical . You have to fight tooth and nail, wherever necessary but you have to also support wherever the decision of the Majority is right and benefits the organisation.

Being in Opposition tests patience and resilience. You often witness decisions pushed through by the majority's numerical strength, not necessarily by sound arguments or logic. You argue, object, and persist—often without immediate success due to the lack of numerical backing. In such moments, it is easy to slip into cynicism, echoing the sentiment of the French philosopher Joseph de Maistre: “Every nation gets the government it deserves.”

Yet, the next day, you must reset. Perhaps consume the proverbial protein milkshake with a shot of extra resilience. You show up and push back again because, in a democracy, persistence is not optional— it is the Opposition’s only real power. You must be ready to fight against the wrongs you see, even when you know you may lose the numerical battle.