Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the nation, launched a sharp attack on parties such as the Indian National Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Samajwadi Party, and All India Trinamool Congress, accusing them of indulging in self-serving politics that have harmed women across the country. He remarked that women in the 21st century are closely watching these developments and will deliver a fitting response at the right time. The Prime Minister stressed that such political actions reflect poorly on the commitment of these parties toward women’s empowerment and rights.
Reacting to the speech, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde backed Modi’s stance and expressed confidence that women would receive their due respect and rights under his leadership. He asserted that the Shiv Sena would stand shoulder to shoulder with the NDA government in this effort. Shinde also criticised the opposition for celebrating the rejection of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, calling it an unfortunate and disrespectful act toward women. He said the Prime Minister’s speech served as a strong reply to critics and highlighted the seriousness of the issue.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal hit back at the Prime Minister, alleging that the address was more political than substantive. He claimed that under the pretext of women’s reservation, the government is attempting to push a constituency delimitation bill that could alter the country’s electoral framework. Sapkal further alleged that such moves expose the government’s hidden agenda to reshape the democratic structure, raising concerns about the potential impact on the Constitution and the nation’s democratic values.