CHANDIGARH: Today, Gursharan Kaur Randhawa, President of the Punjab Mahila Congress, addressed the media to announce the launch of 'Nari Nyay, ' an initiative spearheaded by the All India Mahila Congress.
In her statement to the media, President Randhawa emphasized the necessity of establishing a comprehensive framework for gender equity in the nation, a mission championed through this initiative. She stated, "This initiative, inspired by the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi, underscores the imperative of crafting a robust system of justice for women in our country."
President Gursharan Kaur Randhawa outlined the key objectives of the 'Nari Nyay' campaign:
Economic Empowerment: Highlighting the disproportionate impact of inflation on women, particularly in essential household expenses, President Randhawa underscored the need for equitable wages and enhanced financial support for women. She said – “Essential household expenses like gas cylinders, and food grains continue to rise with no proper subsidies being provided to women.”
Social Empowerment: Concerns were raised regarding the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, particularly for pregnant women, in light of diminishing resources in primary health centers across the nation. She said –“During Congress rule, heavy investment in healthcare infrastructure was undertaken in all towns and villages of the nation. Now, basic healthcare has become a luxury with pregnant women facing the brunt of the same.”
Education: President Randhawa stressed the importance of preserving and expanding educational opportunities for women, expressing concern over budgetary cuts and inadequate staffing in government educational institutions.
Political Empowerment: Calling attention to the erosion of women's political representation, President Randhawa advocated for the reinstatement of reservation policies to ensure equitable participation in governance.
Security against Violence: Criticizing the government's handling of cases of violence against women, President Randhawa demanded robust measures to ensure the safety and protection of women across the nation. “BJP has protected the worst criminals who have committed crimes against women. Be it Bilkis Bano’s case, or the heinous crimes against women taking place in Manipur which have been clearly ignored by the BJP. As well as their actions against the women wrestlers of the nation just to safeguard a member of their political party.”
President Randhawa concluded her address by reaffirming the commitment of the Punjab Mahila Congress to the pursuit of gender equality as a fundamental right. She expressed gratitude towards AICC Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba for her unwavering advocacy and announced plans for a state executive meeting on 8 February well as participation in the upcoming workers' convention under the leadership of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Other Punjab Mahila Congress members Lok sabha Observer Natasha Sharma, Mohali District President Swaranjit Kaur, Parminder Kaur Chhina, Deepika, Parpeet Brar, Mamta, Lakshmi were also present at the press conference.