Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday, 3 October 2026, questioned why girls in India had reached a point where they felt compelled to express distrust of men through social media slogans, calling for deep introspection by society over women's safety and dignity. Chouhan made the remarks while addressing a scholarship distribution programme in Bhopal.

The Remark That Sparked Attention

Chouhan specifically referenced the viral social media slogan — 'Ek kachori, do samosa, in mardon ka kya bharosa' (one kachori, two samosas, what can one trust about these men) — and used it as a lens to examine the broader condition of women's safety in the country. 'Why has it come to such a pass that my daughters have to write such a slogan?' he said, according to reports.

'If our sisters and daughters cannot trust men, how will society and the country move forward?' Chouhan added, urging men, boys, and parents alike to reflect on their conduct and ensure women are treated with respect at all times.

Safety Is Society's Responsibility, Not Just Families'

The minister noted that women and girls sometimes face inappropriate behaviour even from people known to them — a pointed acknowledgement that safety threats are not always external or anonymous. He stressed that safeguarding the dignity of women was a collective societal obligation, not one that rested solely on families.

This comes amid sustained national conversations about women's safety in India, with incidents of harassment and assault regularly prompting public debate. Chouhan's willingness to engage with a satirical social media phrase — and treat it as a serious social signal — marks a notable rhetorical approach from a senior Union minister.

Scholarship Scheme for Children of Drivers

The occasion for Chouhan's remarks was a scholarship programme benefiting children of drivers. Under the scheme, students of Classes 8 to 10 securing more than 60 per cent marks will receive ₹4,000 annually, while students of Classes 11 and 12 will receive ₹4,500. Students securing more than 90 per cent marks will be eligible for ₹5,000.

Chouhan also announced support for competitive examination coaching and skill-development programmes, noting that 'Mama Coaching Classes' had been launched in his parliamentary constituency of Vidisha to help students prepare for government employment. He said efforts would be made to connect students with skill-development initiatives for self-employment after completing their education.

Earlier Event: Diabetes Conference in Vidisha

Before the Bhopal programme, Chouhan attended the 11th annual conference of the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India at Sanchi, also in his Vidisha parliamentary constituency. He flagged diabetes as a growing health challenge and called for greater focus on prevention, awareness, treatment, and research across the country.

With the minister's remarks now drawing attention online, the spotlight on gendered trust, public safety, and the cultural signals embedded in viral humour is likely to intensify in the days ahead.