Tuesday, June 21 2005 15:28 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Centre would soon take a decision on the much-awaited Women's Reservation Bill as discussions on the issue have reached an advanced stage, Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh said in New Delhi today (Jun 21, 2005).

"I am confident that steps will be taken in this matter over the next few days," Singh told reporters on the sidelines of the National Conference of Chairpersons, Secretaries and Field Officers of the State Social Welfare Boards.

Centre is committed to introduce 33 per cent reservation for women and discussions on the issue have reached an advanced stage, he said.

"The matter is being discussed at length with everyone," the Minister said.

Home Minister Shivraj Patil has been holding talks with political parties to arrive at a consensus on the vexed issue of granting 33 per cent reservation to women.

Earlier, Central Social Welfare Board Chairperson Rajani Patil demanded that the Bill be introduced in Parliament immediately.

She said she would also call on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and request him to ensure speedy passage of the Bill.

Patil said the CSWB is planning to organise a massive rally in Delhi to press for the demand for women's reservation.

In a memorandum to the HRD Minister, the CSWB demanded that the tenure of the Chairperson of the Central and the State Social Welfare boards be increased from the current three years to five years.