Joshi, however, played down objections raised by various parties, including BJP allies like JD(U), over the bill being passed "in its present form" and the demand for a separate quota for women belonging to lower castes.

"All parties, including JD(U), are realising that once 33 per cent of the seats are reserved for women they would be free to choose candidates from whichever social group they wish. This has already been our experience in the Panchayats," he said.

Joshi also said the "most unequivocal message that has emerged from results of Lok Sabha elections is the people's non-acceptance of candidates with a criminal background. All parties must seize the opportunity and take effective steps to prevent the entry of people with dubious records into their outfits as they no longer appear winnable".