Guwahati (Assam), April 20:

Assam BJP president and MP Dilip Saikia on Sunday announced a statewide ‘Mahila Aakrosh’ campaign beginning April 23. The initiative will target the Indian National Congress over what the party describes as anti-women policies.

Campaign Strategy and Outreach

At a press conference in Guwahati, Saikia explained the campaign plan in detail. Firstly, the BJP will organise district-level press briefings and public discussions. In addition, outreach programmes will connect with women from different sectors.

Party leaders aim to build awareness through direct engagement. Moreover, the programme will highlight key issues related to women’s rights and political participation. As a result, the party expects stronger public involvement.

Debate Over Nari Shakti Bill

Saikia criticised Congress for opposing the Nari Shakti Bandan Amendment Bill, 2026. According to him, the party created confusion by linking the bill to delimitation.

He stated that the proposal intends to improve representation by increasing constituencies under constitutional provisions. Therefore, it would ensure fair participation for women in governance. However, he alleged that Congress delayed the bill using weak arguments.

Political Accusations Intensify

The BJP leader said Congress fears the rise of women in politics. Furthermore, he claimed the party raised unnecessary regional concerns to block progress.

Calling the opposition’s stance a betrayal, Saikia said women voters would respond strongly. In fact, he added that the campaign reflects growing dissatisfaction among women.

Comparison with the Modi Government

Saikia compared Congress’s record with that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said Congress ruled for decades but failed to expand women’s political participation.

On the other hand, he highlighted initiatives introduced by the Modi government. These programmes, he said, promote inclusion and empowerment. Consequently, women have gained better opportunities across sectors.

Opposition Conduct Under Scrutiny

The BJP also criticised opposition’s behaviour in Parliament. Specifically, Saikia described their reaction after failing to secure a two-thirds majority for the bill as inappropriate.

As a result, he argued that such conduct shows a lack of commitment to both development and women’s empowerment.

Historical References Raised

Saikia referred to past events while criticising Congress. For example, he mentioned the Shah Bano case and the issue of triple talaq as instances linked to women’s rights debates.

He also cited the Emergency (India) imposed under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Accordingly, he said that the period reflected restrictions on democratic values and press freedom.

Overall, with the announcement of the ‘Mahila Aakrosh’ campaign, the BJP has intensified its political attack on Congress. Going forward, the initiative will focus on women-centric issues and is expected to shape political discussions in the coming days.