Mamata Banerjee Fires Back at PM Modi Over Women's Reservation and Delimitation
In a fiery statement on Saturday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dismissing any lectures on women's reservation and accusing the BJP of political manipulation. Speaking in Kolkata, Banerjee asserted that she had championed the issue of women's representation as far back as 1998 during her time in Parliament.
"Speeches Full of Lies": Banerjee's Sharp Critique
Banerjee did not mince words, labeling PM Modi's recent addresses as "full of lies." She suggested that the Prime Minister was "forced" to speak to the nation because "their (BJP's) fall began yesterday," implying a decline in the party's political fortunes. This comment comes amid heightened political tensions as Bengal prepares for upcoming assembly polls.
TMC's Record on Women Representation
Highlighting her party's commitment to gender equality, Banerjee pointed out that over 40% of Trinamool Congress (TMC) Members of Parliament are women, which she claimed is the highest proportion in Parliament. Furthermore, she emphasized that TMC has fielded the highest number of woman candidates—52—in the forthcoming Bengal assembly elections. In comparison, she noted that Congress has nominated 35 women candidates, the Left parties 34, and BJP 33.
Accusations of Delimitation Games
Banerjee accused the BJP of using the Women's Reservation Amendment Bill as a cover for delimitation, alleging that PM Modi sought to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 850 because he "could not have won with the existing number." She questioned the timing and intent, stating, "What was the need to club delimitation with it? Do they think they are too clever?"
She also turned the tables on Modi's "tukde-tukde gang" barb aimed at TMC, retorting, "Through delimitation, BJP wanted to divide the country. They are the real tukde-tukde gang." This exchange underscores the escalating rhetoric between the two political heavyweights.
Historical Context and Political Implications
Banerjee reminded listeners that the women's reservation bill has been pending for a long time, adding weight to her critique of the BJP's recent moves. Her statements reflect broader concerns about electoral strategies and representation in Indian politics, particularly in the lead-up to key state elections.
As the political landscape heats up, Banerjee's remarks signal a robust defense of TMC's policies and a direct challenge to the BJP's narrative on women's empowerment and national unity.
