Patna, April 20 Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Chief Spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav launched a sharp attack on the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over their “Akrosh March” on Monday.
While addressing a press conference along with MLC Urmila Thakur and other leaders, Yadav termed the protest a headline management stunt, alleging that it exposed both the BJP’s true intent and internal lack of coordination within the NDA.
He further claimed that Jeevika Didis were misled and used merely to mobilise crowds, calling the practice inappropriate.
Criticising the event at Kargil Chowk, he alleged that the BJP misused administrative authority by blocking roads in a restricted zone and setting up a stage, thereby disrupting public movement and violating norms.
According to him, such actions reflect arrogance of power.
Yadav also questioned the BJP’s commitment to women’s representation, citing figures from his own party.
He stated that the RJD had allotted 29 per cent tickets to women in Lok Sabha elections, 17 per cent in Assembly elections, and ensured 21.4 per cent representation in the Legislative Council.
He challenged the BJP to publicly disclose comparable data across electoral levels.
Referring to developments during the march, he claimed that JDU MLA and former minister Leshi Singh walked out of the event, alleging a lack of respect, which, he argued, reflected discord within the NDA.
He also questioned remarks by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, asking how the event could be justified given the alleged violations in a restricted area.
On the issue of women’s reservation, Yadav raised concerns over the absence of a “quota within quota” provision, arguing that marginalised women must be ensured equitable representation. He accused the BJP of avoiding this demand.
He further cited incidents from across the country—including those in Manipur and Uttar Pradesh—to question the BJP’s stance on women’s safety, alleging selective silence on sensitive issues.
Yadav also questioned the delay in granting Presidential assent to the Women’s Reservation Bill, passed in 2023, and alleged that the BJP was politicising the issue rather than focusing on implementation.
Highlighting the RJD’s legacy, he pointed to the appointment of Rabri Devi as Bihar’s first Woman Chief Minister, asserting that his party has consistently worked toward women’s empowerment.
Concluding his remarks, Yadav said the opposition remains committed to safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring inclusive representation.
After the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill failed to pass in the Lok Sabha a few days ago, hundreds of women workers associated with the NDA staged a large protest march at Gandhi Maidan on Monday.
Women from across Bihar participated in what was dubbed a March of Outrage, raising slogans and holding placards to demand women’s rights and representation.
The march was led by senior NDA leaders, including Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who joined the demonstration and addressed the gathering.
--IANS
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