Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday criticised Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his recent remarks on patriarchy. He questioned why the Congress party targets only Hindu traditions and remains silent about the condition of women in minority communities.
In a post on X, Rijiju described Congress’s approach to social reform as selective and argued that if the party truly stood for women’s rights, it should speak for women from every community.
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Rahul’s remarks at Pune event
The exchange follows Rahul Gandhi’s address at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme in Pune on 22 August, where he spoke for more than an hour on women’s freedom, gender equality and patriarchy.
During his speech, Rahul said a woman’s identity should not be defined by her father, husband or son, but by her own individuality. Referring to the Manusmriti, he criticised the mindset that treats women as the property of their fathers, husbands or children, calling such thinking shameful.
Rahul said that violence against women occurs in three ways. First-killing them at birth; second-physical abuse; and third-economic restrictions. He said women should have complete freedom to pursue education, jobs, property and make their own decisions.
Rahul told the female students not to be afraid, to raise their voices and fight for themselves. During the event, Rahul spoke with five girls.
Five key points from Rahul Gandhi’s speech
1. Women should have an independent identity: Rahul said that although women share relationships with fathers, husbands and sons, their identity should not be derived from those relationships. He stressed that women are not dependent on anyone and should live with dignity and autonomy.
2. Patriarchy operates through control: Rahul said that women are often controlled through violence, humiliation, restrictions on time and limitations on personal freedom. He cited examples such as curbs on staying out late, working freely and making independent life choices.
3. Inequality in education and employment: Rahul questioned the social mindset that prioritises boys’ education while discouraging girls from pursuing studies or careers. He said many girls are forced to abandon education because of marriage and domestic responsibilities.
4. “Be loud, be proud”: Addressing female students, Rahul encouraged them to speak fearlessly, express their views confidently and stand up for themselves. He said patriarchy could only be challenged through collective action.
5. “Break the cage”: Rahul told the female students that they must break the “cage” in which society confines them. His message was that girls should not be afraid, should speak their minds loudly, and should fight for themselves. He linked this to the freedom to pursue education, work, step outside the home, and live life according to their own choices.
