Women from various parts of the state gathered at Freedom Park in Bengaluru for a protest organized by the “Nari Shakti Forum” against the Congress and INDIA alliance parties. They accused the parties of obstructing the Women’s Reservation Bill recently introduced in Parliament. Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje emphasized the need for increased representation of women in the State Legislative Assembly and the Lok Sabha to enable their active participation in law-making. She highlighted the central government’s efforts to push forward the Women’s Reservation Bill for this purpose.
Addressing the crowd, Karandlaje expressed disappointment over the lack of support from Congress and its allies for the Bill, which resulted in its failure. She reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s vision of empowering women in Parliament and State Assemblies by enhancing the number of women Members of the Legislative Assembly across states. Karandlaje underscored the importance of women’s involvement in policy shaping, stating that women must play a decisive role in framing laws crucial for the nation.
Karandlaje also pointed out the significant responsibilities given to women leaders in the current government, citing examples like Nirmala Sitharaman, who serves as the Finance Minister. She emphasized the role of education, respect, and financial independence in strengthening women’s voices and participation in governance. The Minister highlighted the government’s initiatives aimed at empowering women economically, including their involvement in sectors like drone manufacturing.
Former State Women’s Commission Chairperson C. Manjula, another speaker at the event, called for a widespread movement to amplify women’s influence. She urged women to unite and raise their voices in support of the Women’s Reservation Bill, criticizing the Congress for opposing it. Manjula emphasized the need for continued protests against what she termed as irresponsible politics by the Congress, urging women to stand against injustice and make their voices heard for a more inclusive legislative representation.
Padma Shri awardee S.G. Sushilamma, founder of Sumangali Seva Ashram, also addressed the gathering, advocating for increased representation of educated and aware women in legislative bodies. She condemned the Congress for its lack of support for the Women’s Reservation Bill and called for collective action against the party’s stance.
