Did Priyanka Gandhi Criticize the Centre's Stance on Women Journalists at Afghan Minister's Press Conference?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra challenges the government's treatment of women journalists during an Afghan minister's press conference, questioning the commitment to women's rights in India amidst rising concerns over Taliban policies.
Key Takeaways
- Priyanka Gandhi Vadra challenges the government over the exclusion of female journalists.
- The incident raises serious questions about women's empowerment in India.
- Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is known for his restrictive policies on women's rights.
- The government's relations with the Taliban have come under scrutiny.
- Political leaders are voicing strong opposition to this incident.
New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday demanded answers from the Centre regarding the recent press conference held by Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Delhi, during which female journalists were barred from attending.
She expressed concern about how the Central government can advocate for women's empowerment while allowing such disrespect towards female journalists in India.
Muttaqi, a prominent figure in the Taliban regime, is infamous for implementing policies that drastically curtail women's rights in Afghanistan, including prohibitions on their employment and education.
India has taken a cautious approach in its dealings with the Taliban, primarily due to its human rights record and fears of Afghanistan becoming a sanctuary for terror organizations.
In a post on X, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated, "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 convenient rhetoric from one election to the next, how has this affront to some of India's most capable women been tolerated in our country, a nation whose women are its strength and pride?" she added.
Earlier, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra also criticized the Centre for granting diplomatic privileges to the Taliban delegation.
"The Indian foreign ministry has rolled out the red carpet for this individual, this Taliban foreign minister who has audaciously requested the removal of women from the press conference room, and we are bestowing official status and protocol upon this delegation," she remarked.
Labeling the occurrence a national disgrace, Moitra stated, "This is the utmost dishonor to the women of India, as our government willingly participates in this and utilizes taxpayer funds for such a display. Women journalists were ordered to exit the room. What is happening?"
"You're discussing 'Beti Bachao', advocating for women in India, and referring to 'Maas' and 'Behans'. At taxpayer expense, you provide official protocol and a red carpet for a government delegation that is, on Indian soil, dishonoring our values by demanding the removal of women from the room," she continued, condemning the government's actions.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the ongoing struggle for women's rights, especially in the context of international relations and diplomacy. The incident involving female journalists at the Afghan minister's press conference raises critical questions about the government's commitment to empowering women. This situation requires a balanced discourse that respects our national values while navigating complex global dynamics.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the press conference with the Afghan Minister?
During Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's press conference in Delhi, female journalists were barred from attending, prompting criticism from Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
Why is this incident significant?
This incident is significant as it raises concerns about the Indian government's commitment to women's empowerment and highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights, especially in relation to the Taliban's policies.
What did Priyanka Gandhi Vadra say about this situation?
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanded clarification from Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the exclusion of female journalists and questioned the government's stance on women's rights.
