BJP vows reservation for women in parliament, assemblies

New Delhi, April 7 (IANS) The BJP Monday promised in its manifesto 33 percent reservation for women in parliament and in assemblies and promised to launch a national campaign to save the girl child and to give quick relief to rape victims.

"BJP recognises the important role of women in development of the society and growth of the nation, and remains committed to give a high priority to women's empowerment and welfare. BJP ruled states have demonstrated this through various schemes," the manifesto said.

It said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) recognises the need for women's security as a precondition to women's empowerment.

"Women's welfare and development will be accorded a high priority at all levels within the government, and BJP is committed to 33 percent reservation in parliamentary and state assemblies through a constitutional amendment.

"Launch a national campaign for saving the girl child and educating her - Beti Bachao - Beti Padhao. (Save girl child, educate her)."

The manifesto, which was released at the BJP headquarters here by a galaxy of leaders, including its prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi, also said that if the party comes to power it will formulate a comprehensive scheme, incorporating the best practices from past successes to support and encourage a positive attitude amongst families towards the girl child.

"Program for women healthcare in a mission mode, especially focusing on domains of nutrition and pregnancy - with emphasis on rural, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Castes.

"We will enable women with training and skills - setting up dedicated women Indian Technical Institutes (ITIs), women wings in other ITIs.

"Strict implementation of laws related to women, particularly those related to rape. Fund for relief and rehabilitation of rape victims lies unused at the centre as the government has not worked out the modalities of dispensation. BJP will clear this on priority," the manifesto promised.