Is the Centre's Stance on Nari Shakti Just Empty Slogans?
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Synopsis
Rahul Gandhi challenges the Indian government's commitment to women's rights after Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's press conference excluded female journalists. This incident raises critical questions about government accountability and women's empowerment in India.
Key Takeaways
- Exclusion of women journalists from the press conference raises serious questions about gender equality.
- Rahul Gandhi's support for Priyanka Gandhi emphasizes the need for accountability from the government.
- The incident highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights in India.
- The Centre's denial of involvement showcases the complexities of diplomatic engagements.
- The need for genuine commitment to women's empowerment is underscored.
New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, expressed support on Saturday for Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's condemnation of the Centre concerning the Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's press conference in Delhi, where female journalists were barred from attending.
Muttaqi, a prominent figure in the Taliban administration, has enforced policies that significantly undermine women's rights in Afghanistan, including prohibiting access to employment and education.
India has adopted a measured approach in its dealings with the Taliban, given its troubling human rights record and concerns regarding Afghanistan becoming a refuge for terrorist organizations.
Reposting Priyanka Gandhi's message on X, Rahul Gandhi remarked, "Mr. Modi, by allowing the exclusion of women journalists from a public discussion, you are signaling to every woman in India that you lack the strength to advocate for them."
He emphasized that women in India deserve equal rights across all sectors and criticized the Centre's inaction regarding the press conference incident.
"In our nation, women are entitled to equal representation in every arena. Your silence amidst such discrimination reveals the hollowness of your slogans about Nari Shakti," LoP Gandhi stated.
Earlier that day, Congress MP Priyanka questioned how the Central government could claim to support women's empowerment while permitting such disrespect towards female journalists in India.
In her post on X, Priyanka Gandhi urged, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi, please clarify your stance on the exclusion of female journalists from the Taliban representative's press conference during his visit to India."
"If your acknowledgment of women's rights isn't merely a facade for elections, how has this affront to some of India's most capable women been tolerated in our country, where women are its backbone and pride?" she asked.
However, the Centre denied any involvement in the purported "ban" on women journalists at Muttaqi's press event.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) explained that invitations for the press event were issued by Afghanistan's Consul General in Mumbai to select journalists in Delhi for the Afghan minister's visit. According to NDTV, the Afghan Embassy's location is beyond the jurisdiction of the Indian government.
Point of View
This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights in India. It raises essential questions about the government's commitment to gender equality and the need for accountability. The silence surrounding this event is troubling and must be addressed to uphold the dignity of women journalists and all women in India.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the incident involving Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi?
The incident involved a press conference held by Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Delhi, where female journalists were not allowed to attend.
What did Rahul Gandhi say about the exclusion of women journalists?
Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Modi, stating that excluding women journalists from such a public forum indicates a lack of support for women's rights.
How has the Centre responded to the controversy?
The Centre has denied any involvement in the exclusion of women journalists, stating that invitations were managed by the Afghan Consul General.
What are the implications of this incident for women's rights in India?
This incident raises concerns about the government's commitment to women's rights and the ongoing challenges female journalists face in India.
What does Nari Shakti mean in the context of this discussion?
Nari Shakti refers to the empowerment and strength of women, which is a crucial topic in the context of this incident and the government's stance.
