Kolkata, April 9: Bhawna Bohra, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), criticized the Congress party for using various tactics to keep the Women's Reservation Bill stalled, while highlighting the Modi government’s progress in empowering women. Bohra stated that women in India are poised to make history, asserting that their social standing has significantly improved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
She cited key initiatives like the Ujjwala scheme, the construction of toilets, and the government’s efforts to eliminate practices such as triple talaq, all of which, she said, have played a crucial role in enhancing women’s dignity and safety. “Today, we can proudly say that India’s daughters will not only read history, but they will write it,” Bohra remarked. She emphasized that since Modi assumed office, the social status of women has risen steadily, pointing to government initiatives such as the Ujjwala scheme, the provision of toilets, the abolition of triple talaq, and Operation Sindoor as examples of proactive measures taken for women’s empowerment.
“This three-day special session will be pivotal for all women. When the Congress was in power, they used every possible strategy to keep the bill pending, but the BJP has consistently worked towards empowering women. The women’s reservation bill is a milestone we look forward to,” she added.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a significant Mahila Sammelan at Vigyan Bhawan on April 13, a move that signals an important outreach ahead of legislative changes regarding women's representation. Sources suggest that the Prime Minister will highlight the government’s dedication to ensuring greater participation of women in legislative bodies and decision-making processes. Invitations are expected to be sent to all female Members of Parliament.
In preparation for this parliamentary move, the BJP has ramped up its nationwide campaign, including the "Mahila Samvad" initiative, aimed at directly engaging women across both urban and rural areas. The programme is focused on educating women about the provisions of the Women’s Reservation Bill and gathering grassroots feedback.
Prime Minister Modi has previously described the Women's Reservation Bill as a historic step towards strengthening women’s empowerment. In his remarks, he emphasized that the bill is a reflection of the government’s commitment to "Nari Shakti" (women’s strength) and would provide women with a stronger voice in policymaking, leading to more inclusive and balanced governance.