- Guwahati, April 20: Mira Borthakur on April 20 launched a sharp criticism of the BJP over the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill, accusing the party of spreading “false narratives” to mislead the public.
Addressing a press conference in Guwahati, she alleged that the BJP was attempting to portray the Opposition as anti-women while diverting attention from delays in implementing the legislation passed in 2023. She questioned why the law had not yet been enforced and criticised the Centre for linking its rollout with delimitation based on the 2011 Census.
Using a metaphor, Borthakur said the BJP behaves like “a snake that bites and a charmer that heals,” asserting that people have begun to understand the party’s political approach.
She maintained that the Congress has historically contributed to women’s empowerment and reiterated the party’s support for immediate implementation of 33 per cent reservation without preconditions. She also cited candidate representation figures, claiming that the Congress has fielded more women candidates than the BJP in recent elections.
Further criticising the BJP’s record on women’s safety and rights, she alleged a gap between its claims and actions. Referring to statements by leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Gaurav Gogoi and Priyanka Gandhi, she said the Opposition remains willing to implement the bill based on the current strength of the Lok Sabha.
Borthakur urged the public not to be influenced by what she described as political propaganda, reiterating that the Congress will continue to advocate for women’s rights.
