Historic Bill Passes: Goa Scheduled Tribes Gain Assembly Representation

The Lok Sabha, India's lower house of Parliament, on Tuesday approved a significant bill granting reservation to the Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Goa assembly. This legislative move, led by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, faced stiff resistance from opposition parties demanding discussions on Bihar's electoral roll revisions.

Initially introduced in 2024, 'The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2025' was finally passed amid ongoing Monsoon session turmoil. The move marks the first successful legislation of the session, despite opposition disruptions over multiple issues.

Data shows a notable rise in Goa's ST population compared to previous census figures, necessitating reserved assembly seats. Although Goa's 40-member assembly currently has a seat reserved for Scheduled Castes, none are designated for Scheduled Tribes, prompting this legislative action to address the disparity.

(With inputs from agencies.)