And Indian politicians are still dallying

on 30% reservation of seats for women in the Indian Parliament.

Meanwhile, in its last elections, Rwanda had the highest percentage of women in parliament in the world: 56.25% of the seats, up from 48% in the previous parliament.

The Rwandan constitution, ratified in May 2003, states that 30% of decision-making positions are to be reserved for women.

According to President Paul Kagame, increased participation of women in politics is necessary for improving the social, economic and political conditions of their families and the entire country.

It is argued that women's representation in national parliaments across sub Saharan Africa equals the world average of about 15 per cent, but it is higher than in many wealthier nations, according to Unifem's 2002 report.

Time to think hard on those whom we vote to the Lok Sabha. Are people's representatives really representing the people?