Anantnag: Empowerment of women remains a core agenda and unwavering commitment of the Congress Party, according to All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Ghulam Ahmad Mir.
Addressing a large gathering at a women’s leadership convention in the Verinag area of South Kashmir, Mir reiterated the party’s dedication to addressing women’s grievances and securing 33% reservation for women in political, administrative, and other spheres.
Mir emphasized that women, who bear the brunt of inflation and economic challenges, are pivotal to society’s overall development. He assured that the Congress Party would continue its fight to ensure justice and equal treatment for women. “Women are the worst hit by the inflation and economic crisis,” Mir stated, “and our struggle to secure 33% reservation for women will continue.
The recently announced assembly elections present a crucial opportunity for women to engage in the democratic process, Mir asserted. He appealed to women voters to participate enthusiastically and elect representatives who truly represent the public’s interests. “The assembly elections offer a chance for women, who comprise 50% of the population, to come out in large numbers and ensure that J&K gets its elected government,” he added.
The convention was presided over by All India Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba, who hailed women as a significant source of resilience and sacrifice. Lamba commended the Congress Party’s ongoing struggle for 33% women’s reservation, particularly acknowledging the contributions of CPP Chairperson Sonia Gandhi. “Women are a source of encouragement to society,” Lamba remarked, “and much remains to be done to ensure they receive the respect and rights they deserve, on par with men.”
Mir also urged the central government to implement the 33% reservation for women in both letter and spirit, rather than making empty promises. He highlighted the impact of inflation on women, noting that rising prices of essential goods disproportionately affect them. “The price hike on essentials directly impacts women,” Mir said, “and controlling inflation will lead to their economic upliftment.”
Furthermore, Mir called on the women leaders present to work tirelessly towards creating a coercion-free society and addressing domestic violence. He stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to curb rising incidents of violence against women and ensure their safety.
Alka Lamba echoed these sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the conduct of the women’s leadership convention. She vowed to continue the fight for women’s rights, particularly the 33% reservation in government departments and the political arena. “Women are the source of solace for society,” Lamba asserted, “and society must, in turn, grant them equal rights and respect.”
The convention also saw addresses from senior Mahila Congress leaders, including Mahila Vice President Bhanu Mahajan, who further reinforced the party’s commitment to women’s empowerment and their significant role in shaping the future of the nation.