Guwahati: The political landscape in Assam has been shaken by a fierce condemnation from the All India Mahila Congress, who have launched a direct assault on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The focal point of their ire lies in what they describe as a “disgraceful and misogynistic” statement, one they believe fundamentally undermines the dignity of women throughout India.
At the heart of the burgeoning controversy is an alleged assertion by Chief Minister Sarma, in which he claimed that during the Congress’s tenure, women were forced to “lose their chastity” in order to obtain government employment. The Mahila Congress, in a vehement response, labeled this remark as “derogatory, irresponsible, and deeply offensive,” highlighting the perceived damage to the reputation of both women seeking employment and the institutions responsible for recruitment.
The Mahila Congress has issued a series of demands, most notably a call for an immediate public apology from the Chief Minister for what they deem “appalling remarks.” Additionally, they have sought a clarification from the Prime Minister regarding whether these views reflect the official stance of the BJP. Furthermore, they have urged the National Commission for Women to take suo motu action against the Assam Chief Minister.
In a move signaling their intent to escalate the issue, the women’s wing of the Congress party has announced a nationwide protest. They have vowed to challenge what they perceive as the normalization of “misogynistic mindsets” within Indian politics, calling upon women across the nation to unite in opposition to what they characterize as an insult to womanhood.
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