Guwahati, 19 April (HS): Assam Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president and Darrang–Udalguri Lok Sabha MP Dilip Saikia on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Congress and the INDI alliance, alleging that they have done nothing for women’s empowerment over the past six decades.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP state headquarters, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan, Saikia criticized the opposition for opposing the Nari Shakti Vandan Amendment Bill 2026. He said that Congress had historically opposed key reforms, from Article 370 to the ban on triple talaq and accused it of being against the upliftment of women. He added that the BJP-led government aims to ensure 33% reservation for women in the 2029 Lok Sabha, calling it a step towards giving women their due respect and representation.

Saikia further alleged that Congress and its allies are “enemies of development and women empowerment” and are misleading the public with false narratives. He announced that a massive protest programme will be held in Guwahati on April 23 to expose what he termed as opposition propaganda.

Taking a swipe at Congress, Saikia said the party has a history of disrespecting women and is shedding “crocodile tears” in the name of OBCs. He cited the election of Droupadi Murmu as President as an example of BJP’s commitment to empowering women, particularly from tribal communities.

State Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, who was also present at the press conference, said she felt deeply hurt as a woman over recent remarks targeting President Murmu. Drawing a parallel with the Mahabharata, she remarked that disrespect towards Draupadi led to the downfall of the Kauravas, adding that women will not forget such insults.

Several senior leaders, including Guwahati MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, former MP Queen Oja, former minister Rekha Rani Das Bodo and Barpeta MP Phani Bhusan Choudhury, were also present at the press conference and shared their views.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash