Madan Rathore: Congress' Historical Neglect of Women's Rights Exemplified by Shah Bano Case
Synopsis
Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Rathore condemns Congress for its neglect of women's rights, citing the Shah Bano case as a key example. He urges political parties to prioritize women's empowerment and representation, emphasizing the need for change in legislative bodies.
Key Takeaways
Madan Rathore criticizes Congress for neglecting women's rights.
The Shah Bano case serves as a key example of this neglect.
Rathore calls for greater representation of women in political bodies.
The BJP has taken steps to empower women, particularly in the Muslim community.
He urges political parties to collaborate for women's empowerment.
Jaipur, April 18 (NationPress) The President of Rajasthan's BJP, Madan Rathore, has launched a strong critique against the Congress party, labeling it as "anti-women" and claiming that its historical actions demonstrate a persistent disregard for women's rights.
He pointed to the Shah Bano case as a significant instance where the Congress government reversed a Supreme Court ruling through legislative means, thus denying justice to a woman.
Rathore argued that this ruling not only impacted the individual involved but also diminished the dignity and self-worth of countless Muslim women throughout India.
He accused Congress of viewing women merely as "silent voters" rather than focusing on their empowerment and dignity.
Today, Rathore highlighted, women are making significant strides in various fields, such as industry, science, and space, and are confidently shaping the future of the nation.
He insisted that women should be adequately represented in both Legislative Assemblies and the Lok Sabha.
Furthermore, he noted that the Bharatiya Janata Party has taken tangible measures to protect the rights and dignity of Muslim women, thus boosting their self-esteem.
Rathore also recalled that former Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat took a landmark initiative for women’s political empowerment by establishing reservations in Panchayati Raj institutions and local bodies.
He mentioned that leaders like former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee Ji made consistent efforts to enhance women's representation in Parliament and state assemblies.
As such significant legislation requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament, Rathore expressed hope that all parties, including Congress, would provide constructive support.
However, he claimed that Congress has continually shied away from backing such initiatives, fearing that empowering women politically could jeopardize its traditional voter base. He labeled this stance as unfair to women and detrimental to democratic advancement.
Rathore urged all political factions to prioritize women’s rights and dignity, working collaboratively towards their empowerment.
In conclusion, he stated that Congress's reluctance to genuinely grant political rights to women stems from a fear of undermining its own political foundation, which is why it has failed to take a definitive stance on critical issues like women’s reservation.
He emphasized that women in India are now informed and empowered, and will no longer accept political manipulation regarding their rights, dignity, and representation.
It is crucial, he stated, for women to receive their rightful share in legislative bodies, and the public will hold accountable those who impede this progress.
Point of View
The criticism levied by Madan Rathore against Congress highlights ongoing concerns regarding women's rights in India. His emphasis on historical precedents and the need for political representation underscores a significant issue that transcends party lines, urging a collective commitment to women's empowerment in the political landscape.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Madan Rathore say about the Congress party?
Madan Rathore criticized the Congress party, calling it 'anti-women' and highlighting its historical neglect of women's rights, particularly referencing the Shah Bano case.
How did the Shah Bano case affect Muslim women?
Rathore argued that the reversal of the Supreme Court ruling in the Shah Bano case not only denied justice to one woman but also impacted the dignity and self-respect of many Muslim women across India.
What steps has the BJP taken for women's empowerment?
The BJP has implemented measures to safeguard the dignity and rights of Muslim women and has advocated for their representation in legislative bodies.
Why does Rathore believe Congress avoids supporting women's reservation?
Rathore claims Congress fears that empowering women politically could weaken its traditional voter base, leading to a reluctance to support key measures like women’s reservation.
What does Rathore urge other political parties to do?
He urges all political parties to prioritize women's rights and work together to empower them.
