Shobha Oza Slams BJP Over Women's Ordeal at CJP Protest
Former All India Women Congress president Shobha Oza on Friday strongly criticized the BJP, asserting that the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' slogan has become hollow after women protesters were brutally mistreated at a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in Delhi.
“These students were not only injured but also subjected to all manner of brutal acts, including molestation, obscenity, and verbal abuse,” Oza told reporters, according to news agency PTI. She demanded that the government take immediate action against the perpetrators.
Details of the Protest
The protest, which took place in the national capital on an unspecified date, saw a large number of female students participating. Oza alleged that the women faced severe violence and sexual harassment at the hands of counter-protesters or security forces, though she did not specify the attackers.
“The incident exposes the hypocrisy of those who claim to champion women’s empowerment but turn a blind eye to such atrocities,” Oza added. She called for a thorough inquiry into the matter.
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme
The 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' (BBBP) scheme was initiated by the Modi government in 2015 with the objectives of preventing gender-biased sex selection, ensuring survival and protection of the girl child, and promoting education. Despite government claims of success, women’s rights groups have often criticized the implementation.
Oza’s statement comes as a fresh reminder of the challenges faced by women in India, particularly in political protests. She noted that the government must walk the talk on women’s safety.
Political Fallout
The BJP has yet to respond to Oza’s allegations. However, the Congress party rallied behind its leader, with several party spokespersons echoing her sentiments on social media.
The CJP, a relatively new political group, has not commented on the incident. The protest is believed to be part of a series of demonstrations against the government’s policies.
Oza concluded by saying that real change will only come when the government prioritizes the safety and dignity of women over political rhetoric.
