Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday criticized the Congress, Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, and DMK for obstructing the women's reservation bill in Parliament. He stated that these parties, which engage in nepotism and appeasement politics, view the increasing representation of women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as a threat to their existence.
Women's Response to Opposition
Addressing an all-women convention named 'Nari Shakti Vandan' in his Lok Sabha constituency, Modi remarked, "Women of the country are witnessing the character of the opposition parties. By turning out in large numbers to vote in poll-bound states, women are sending a clear signal that they will punish those parties that blocked the women's reservation bill."
Government's Commitment
Modi emphasized that "nari shakti" is the strongest pillar of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He reiterated that despite obstacles, his government will continue its efforts to ensure women have a stronger presence in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, playing a key role in law-making.
After launching 163 projects worth Rs 6,332 crore, laying the foundation for 113 projects of Rs 5,277 crore, inaugurating 50 projects worth Rs 1,055 crore, and flagging off two Amrit Bharat trains, Modi targeted the opposition. "The construction of the new Parliament building made our intention clear: we will fulfill our commitment to give 33% quota to women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The first bill we tabled in the new Parliament was the women's reservation bill, and it was passed. But when it came to implementation, Congress, Samajwadi Party, TMC, and DMK created hurdles again. Like the past 40 years, they decided to keep women deprived of their rights to become lawmakers and decision-makers in greater numbers."
Modi asserted, "The mission to make India developed continues unabated. And when I speak of a developed India, its strongest pillar is India's 'Nari shakti' (women power)."
Women's Safety and Empowerment
The Prime Minister highlighted the BJP-led government's focus on women's safety. "You have seen the situation change here in Uttar Pradesh. Until a few years ago, when the Samajwadi Party was in power, it was difficult for daughters to even step out of their homes. But now, under the BJP government, anyone harboring negative thoughts against daughters knows the consequences. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has given sisters and daughters new confidence in their safety."
Modi listed various initiatives aimed at strengthening women's social and economic conditions, including toilets, Jan Dhan accounts, Ujjwala connections, tap water, electricity, housing in women's names, Mudra loans, Lakhpati Didi, Drone Didi, Sukanya Samriddhi, self-help groups, and dairy sector promotion. "Today, women are advancing in every field, and the government is providing every possible support for their progress, as their role is key to achieving the dream of a developed India by 2047."
Development Projects and Trains
Regarding the inaugurated projects, Modi said they will give new momentum to the region's development. The Amrit Bharat Express trains from Kashi to Pune and Ayodhya to Mumbai will greatly benefit the public, providing a modern and convenient option to visit Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Ayodhya.
Modi reiterated his commitment to implementing women's reservation and advancing women's empowerment. He mentioned how development works have transformed Kashi, with expanded infrastructure and boosted tourism. The Kashi Vishwanath Dham project has established Kashi's global identity, while beautification of Ganga Ghats, road widening, and modern facilities have revitalized the city.
Opposition vs. Government Approach
Modi contrasted the opposition's politics with the BJP-led NDA government's dedication to development and welfare. "Unlike opposition parties that work only for politics, our government is dedicated to the country's development and people's welfare. We have worked for all sections without discrimination, and that is why public trust is continuously growing."
Ending the 'Tu Chup Raha' Mindset
Reading the mood of the all-women crowd, Modi moved through the lanes in an open vehicle, chanting 'Har-Har Mahadev' and invoking goddesses of Kashi. "We are celebrating the veneration and development of women's power," he said, switching to Bhojpuri to remind the crowd: "Women are key to making a family, society, and country, but they are still told 'What will you do? Stay silent, you can't do it, what's the need?' Often, women aren't even consulted when decisions are made for them."
Modi recalled that when he became Chief Minister of Gujarat about 25 years ago, he resolved to change this mindset. He launched special schemes to promote girls' education. Since 2014, when mothers and sisters gave him the opportunity to serve, India has been moving rapidly on the development path.
