Shimla, April 9 -- Voices from across Himachal Pradesh have welcomed the proposed Women's Reservation Bill, expressing strong optimism that it will mark a turning point in empowering women and strengthening democratic participation.

Member of the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, Mamta Mokta, said the bill would provide women a crucial platform to raise their voices effectively in Parliament and legislative assemblies. She emphasised that women are "capable, aware and self-reliant", and their participation in policymaking is essential not only for gender equality but also for framing stronger laws to curb violence against women.

She said that increased representation would help ensure balanced development and improve decision-...