Congress Holds Major Protest in Nakodar Over Unfulfilled Women's Payment Promise
In a significant display of dissent, the Congress party organized a large-scale dharna (protest) today in Nakodar, Punjab, rallying hundreds of women workers and supporters to demand justice and highlight pressing issues affecting women across the state. The protest targeted the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, with participants voicing strong opposition to its policies and calling for immediate action on long-standing commitments.
Demand for Rs 48,000 Pending Payment Per Woman
The central focus of the dharna was the unfulfilled pre-election promise made by the AAP to provide Rs 1,000 per month to every woman in Punjab. Protesters emphasized that this pledge has remained unimplemented for the past four years, resulting in a cumulative pending amount of Rs 48,000 per eligible woman. They demanded that the state government release these funds without any further delay, arguing that the failure to do so undermines trust and exacerbates financial hardships for women.
Concerns Over Drug Menace and Law and Order
Beyond the financial demands, the protesting women expressed grave concerns about the escalating drug menace in Punjab and its severe social consequences. They highlighted that the growing drug problem, coupled with a deteriorating law and order situation, disproportionately impacts women, leading to increased vulnerability and societal challenges. The Congress workers called for urgent governmental intervention to address these critical issues and ensure safety and stability in the region.
Resolution for Public Apology from Chief Minister
During the gathering, the women workers passed a resolution demanding that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann issue a public apology for allegedly using derogatory language about women on International Women's Day. They warned that if an apology is not forthcoming, the Congress Party will intensify its agitation and expand the protest movement across the state, signaling a potential escalation in political tensions.
Criticism from Congress Leaders
Addressing the crowd, Dr. Navjot Dahiya, Halka Incharge of Nakodar, strongly criticized the AAP government, accusing it of making empty promises to gain women's support during elections. He stated that the Congress Party stands firmly with the women of Punjab and will continue to advocate for their rights until their rightful dues are delivered. This stance underscores the party's commitment to holding the ruling administration accountable and championing women's issues in the political arena.
The dharna in Nakodar reflects broader discontent in Punjab, with the Congress leveraging grassroots mobilization to pressure the AAP government on key social and economic fronts. As the protest gains momentum, it highlights the ongoing struggle for women's empowerment and the need for transparent governance in the state.
