Is Mahua Moitra Right to Criticize the Centre Over Afghan Foreign Minister's Press Conference?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra condemns the Centre for allowing Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to hold a press conference in Delhi that barred women journalists. The incident raises serious questions about India's commitment to gender equality and diplomatic conduct.
Key Takeaways
- Mahua Moitra laments the exclusion of women journalists.
- The Afghan Foreign Minister's presence has stirred controversy.
- The incident challenges India's commitment to gender equality.
- Criticism targets both the government and attending journalists.
- Public accountability is urged by Moitra.
New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra expressed her strong disapproval of the Centre's decision to permit Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to conduct a press conference in Delhi, during which women journalists were allegedly barred from attending. She described the incident as a “dishonourable” act that contradicts the values of India.
Muttaqi serves as a prominent figure in the Taliban government and has been known for implementing policies that significantly restrict women's rights in Afghanistan, such as prohibitions on education and employment.
India has adopted a cautious approach towards engaging with the Taliban, primarily due to its human rights record and fears of Afghanistan becoming a hub for terrorist organizations.
In her remarks on X, Moitra stated, “I am sharing this video to highlight the shocking event that transpired today on Indian soil. The Taliban's Foreign Minister Muttaqi has met with S. Jaishankar, our External Affairs Minister. Following this, he held a press conference in Delhi where women journalists were excluded.”
She further criticized the Ministry of External Affairs for providing diplomatic courtesies to the Taliban delegation, stating, “The Indian foreign ministry rolled out the red carpet for this Taliban foreign minister, who had the audacity to request that women be removed from the room during his press conference, while we are bestowing official status and protocol upon this delegation.”
Moitra also directed her criticisms towards the male journalists present at the briefing, calling them out for their silence in the face of such discrimination. “Every male journalist who joined this press conference did not raise a voice of protest. Are you emasculated? Are you spineless? I challenge all the male journalists who were present,” she remarked.
Labeling the incident as a national disgrace, Moitra stated, “This is the ultimate dishonour to the women of India, as our government has willingly participated and used taxpayer money for this event. Women journalists were asked to leave the room. What is happening?”
She continued, “You speak about 'Beti Bachao', about women in India, about 'Maas' and 'Behans'. Yet, you are providing, at taxpayer expense, official protocol and the red carpet to a government delegation that, on Indian soil, dishonours our values and demands the removal of women from the room.”
She concluded her remarks by calling on the public to recognize this incident and hold the government accountable. “I hope I am not the only one feeling this outrage. I hope every woman in this country learns about this, feels the indignation, and questions our government,” she urged.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the implications of Mahua Moitra's statements. While her critique highlights significant concerns regarding the treatment of women and India's diplomatic relations, it's essential to approach this topic with an understanding of the broader geopolitical context. India's engagement with Afghanistan and its diplomatic strategies necessitate a careful balance between human rights advocacy and national security interests.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mahua Moitra criticize the Centre?
Moitra criticized the Centre for allowing Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to hold a press conference in Delhi without the presence of women journalists, viewing it as a violation of India's values.
What are the implications of this incident?
The incident raises questions about India's commitment to gender equality and its diplomatic relations with the Taliban, highlighting the need for accountability in government actions.
What policies does Amir Khan Muttaqi support?
Muttaqi supports policies that severely restrict women's rights, including bans on education and employment in Afghanistan.
How has the Indian government responded?
The Indian government has maintained a cautious stance towards the Taliban, focusing on diplomatic engagement while being aware of its human rights record.
What was the public reaction to the press conference?
Public reaction has been mixed, with many expressing outrage over the exclusion of women journalists and calling for accountability from the government.
