Maharashtra BJP Mobilises Protests, Rallies Over Women’s Reservation Bill Defeat
Mumbai: After the failure of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, the BJP launched protests and rallies against the opposition in Maharashtra, accusing them of being ‘anti-women’. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will hold a joint press conference on Monday, which will be attended by senior women leaders of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Sunetra Pawar-led NCP.
In this context, the BJP has decided to organize a mega rally, which is expected to be held in Mumbai on April 30. Fadnavis also criticized the opposition, demanding that they “play bands and dance” if they were happy with the defeat of the bill.
Meanwhile, BJP Mahila Morcha workers staged protests in various parts of Maharashtra, including Mumbai, demanding an apology from Congress leaders like Rahul Gandhi for their role in not passing the bill. The protests revolve around the slogan “Rahul Gandhi maafi maango” (Rahul Gandhi, I’m sorry). Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrasekhar Bawankule also warned that women voters will not forget this ‘betrayal’ and will give a befitting response at the polls.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also criticized the Opposition for the failure of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha. Terming it a “black day”, he said, “This was an opportunity for the opposition to respect women and make them self-reliant, which they have lost. This is a very unfortunate incident.”
Mr. Shinde also alleged that the Congress and opposition parties were anti-women and the nation would not tolerate it. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi rightly said that this is akin to killing women’s wishes. The opposition has worked to take away women’s rights and weaken democracy,” he said.
