The proposed Women's Reservation Bill is set to significantly alter the political landscape in Maharashtra, with the state expected to have approximately 95 women MLAs out of the 288-member Legislative Assembly. This development has initiated concern among male politicians from various parties. Currently, the state's lower house comprises just 24 MLAs, with only one woman Cabinet Minister, Aditi Tatkare.

Of the existing 24 MLAs, the BJP holds 11 seats, Congress has five, Nationalist Congress Party has three, Shiv Sena has two, Shiv Sena (UBT) has one, and two Independents hold seats, totalling 24 in all. While political parties publicly support the 33 per cent reservation for women, privately, many male leaders, especially those with long-standing control over their constituencies, are worried about their political futures.

A senior Congress leader pointed out that similar to reserved SC-ST constituencies, seats for women candidates are expected to be earmarked, compelling all parties to field women candidates in those constituencies to ensure the 33 percent quota in the elected House. This could lead to a significant reshuffling of candidate lists, considering factors like caste, age, political experience, seniority, etc.

An NCP (SP) group leader, speaking anonymously, stressed that parties would need to focus on creating a dedicated women's cadre, developing leadership qualities, and strengthening their existing women's wings, which are often seen as mere formality. They will also need to attract younger, educated women, especially in rural areas.

Local political leaders who have held sway over certain constituencies for years or even decades are genuinely concerned about their prospects if their seats are suddenly designated as 'reserved' for women candidates.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, Leaders of Opposition Vijay Wadettiwar (Assembly) and Ambadas Danve (Council), and heads of major parties have welcomed the move to provide greater representation to women in parliament and legislatures, aiming to empower them further.