Exploring Media Perspectives: Coverage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in Leading Indian English Newspapers

Abstract

In September 2023, Indian politics witnessed two significant events: the transition from the 96-year-old parliament building to a new one in Sansad Marg Area and the passing of the Constitution 128th (Amendment) Bill, 2023—the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. Women’s Reservation Bill, which passed with an overwhelming majority in both the Houses of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha), culminates several previous attempts. The journey of this bill began in 1996, followed by attempts in 1998, 1999 and 2008, with a 2010 bill passing in Rajya Sabha but lapsing in Lok Sabha. At the time of its passing, around 15% of Lok Sabha members were women, a record high. This historical context is crucial to understanding the significance of the bill and its impact on Indian politics. As a powerful influencer of public opinion, the media responded to the Women’s Reservation Bill with praise and criticism, reflecting the diverse public opinion. Some hailed it as a revolutionary step, while others dismissed it as an ‘election jumla (lofty promise)’. The bill’s delayed applicability and the perceived neglect of OBC reservations sparked controversy. This study examines how the news media framed the Women’s Reservation Bill, using content analysis of six leading English newspapers in India: The Times of India, Hindustan Times, Hindu, The Indian Express, The Pioneer and The Statesman. The researchers identified various frames, including informational, political, policy and conflict that the media used to shape public perception and understanding of the bill. The newspaper coverage intensified from September 19 onwards, offering a mix of news stories, analyses and graphical representations, reflecting the complexity of the bill and the public discourse surrounding it.