Chennai, April 12 (NationPress) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) figure and former Governor of Telangana, Tamilisai Soundararajan, accused the Congress on Sunday of persuading other opposition factions, who might support the Women's Reservation Bill, to retract their backing.

Soundararajan, contesting from the Mylapore Assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu's April 23 elections, participated in a campaign rally on Sunday.

Delighted by the introduction of the Women's Reservation Bill, she remarked, "For women to rise in politics is a challenging endeavor. I owe my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as even after 78 years post-Independence, we (women) have struggled to gain recognition. It is only under PM Modi's leadership that we are finally receiving this acknowledgment."

In an interview with IANS, veteran BJP leader Soundararajan stated that despite widespread support for the Bill, "the Opposition parties are actively attempting to obstruct it."

She particularly targeted Congress, asserting, "The Congress not only refuses to support the Bill but is also influencing other opposition parties to withdraw their support. Women will recognize which political parties oppose their empowerment."

During Soundararajan's election rally, she pointed out that the roads and heritage sites within her constituency are currently inadequately maintained.

"This (Mylapore Assembly) constituency needs considerable development. It is an ancient region with a wealth of heritage structures, yet they are not being cared for properly."

She noted that the roads are also in poor condition.

"Development is essential in two primary areas—first, basic amenities, and second, the conservation of cultural monuments, temples, and other historical sites," asserted the BJP leader.

She highlighted that residents are enduring hardships due to a lack of fundamental amenities, even though the area is located in the state capital, Chennai.

Soundararajan called for proper attention to be given to every street.

Regarding PM Modi's forthcoming visit to Tamil Nadu to campaign for the upcoming Assembly elections, she stated, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit will inspire not only the BJP supporters but also the state's populace. His arrival always symbolizes development and the potential for a double-engine government."

Expressing confidence in the BJP's success in the forthcoming state elections, the BJP leader declared, "This time, there will certainly be a change in government in Tamil Nadu."