Gursharan Kaur Randhawa, the President of Punjab Mahila Congress, held a press conference today to announce the launch of ‘Nari Nyay,’ an initiative spearheaded by the All India Mahila Congress. Addressing the media, President Randhawa underscored the critical need for establishing a comprehensive framework for gender equity in the nation, aligning the mission of ‘Nari Nyay’ with the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi.
President Randhawa outlined the core objectives of the ‘Nari Nyay’ campaign, emphasizing its commitment to promoting justice and equality for women in the country. The key focus areas include:
Economic Empowerment: President Randhawa highlighted the disproportionate impact of inflation on women, particularly in essential household expenses. She stressed the need for equitable wages and increased financial support for women, noting the rising costs of items like gas cylinders and food grains without adequate subsidies.
Social Empowerment: Concerns were raised about the accessibility and quality of healthcare services for pregnant women, given diminishing resources in primary health centers nationwide. President Randhawa pointed out that under Congress rule, substantial investments were made in healthcare infrastructure, but now, basic healthcare has become a luxury, with pregnant women bearing the brunt of the consequences.
Education: President Randhawa emphasized the importance of preserving and expanding educational opportunities for women. She expressed concern over budgetary cuts and inadequate staffing in government educational institutions, stressing the need for sustained investment in women’s education.
Political Empowerment: Addressing the decline in women’s political representation, President Randhawa advocated for the reinstatement of reservation policies to ensure equal participation in governance.
Security against Violence: President Randhawa criticized the government’s handling of cases of violence against women and called for robust measures to ensure the safety and protection of women across the nation.
She pointed out instances such as the BJP’s protection of criminals involved in crimes against women, citing examples like Bilkis Bano’s case and incidents in Manipur.
President Randhawa concluded her address by reaffirming Punjab Mahila Congress’s commitment 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, as well as participation in the upcoming workers’ convention under the leadership of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge.
The press conference was attended by other Punjab Mahila Congress members, including Lok Sabha Observer Natasha Sharma, Mohali District President Swaranjit Kaur, Parminder Kaur Chhina, Deepika, Parpeet Brar, Mamta, and Lakshmi.