From our special correspondent in Panaji

Panaji, Jun 7: All India Mahila Congress on Tuesday said it would demand that at least 20 per cent of tickets for the state legislative assembly elections in Goa next year be given to women.
 
"We are sure that the Parliament will pass the reservation bill for 33 per cent by the end of this year but if that bill does not come through we will insist on at least 20 per cent seats for women candidates in Goa elections," organization President Rita Bahuguna Joshi told reporters after attending the women's convention in the state on Tuesday.

"We will ask for only those seats where we are sure to get elected," she said, adding that she had already discussed the matter with Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Ravi Naik, who responded positively.

She said the Mahila Congress have begun their drive to strengthen the organization in the state.

Joshi, during her two-day Goa visit, addressed the women's convention and held discussions with the state party leaders.

She said the Congress was committed to 33 per cent reservations in Assembly and Parliament for women.

Revealing all India statistics, Joshi claimed that no party had given more than 13 per cent consideration to women while distributing tickets during Assembly and Parliament elections.

"Congress is always ahead in giving priority to women in elections," she said adding, "there are several women leaders who have the capability to win the elections on their own but with party support they can make their victory certain."