Nationwide Movement for Women’s Rights
On July 29, 2024, the All India Mahila Congress (AIMC) will commence a sweeping national campaign from Delhi, aimed at advocating for the immediate enactment of the women’s reservation law. This initiative will also champion financial independence for women through monthly cash assistance and enhanced measures for their safety and security.
The campaign, spearheaded by Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba, is set to start from Jantar Mantar and will extend to every state, district, city, and village. The goal is to ensure that the voices of women across the nation are heard and their demands for rights and protection are addressed comprehensively.
Urgency for Implementation of the Women’s Reservation Law
In a press conference held on July 25, 2024, Lamba emphasized that while the Modi government had passed the women’s reservation law prior to the 2024 general elections, its implementation has been stalled. She argued that this delay undermines the benefits that women in states like Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra—where elections are upcoming—could gain from the law. The Mahila Congress is calling for the swift activation of this legislation to ensure that women in these regions can access the promised benefits.
Mahalakshmi Scheme: A Step Towards Financial Empowerment
The Mahalakshmi Scheme, a promise made in the Congress manifesto, is a critical component of the campaign. This scheme proposes an annual cash assistance of ₹1 lakh for one woman in every impoverished family across the country. This financial support aims to alleviate poverty and empower women by providing them with the resources needed for economic stability.
Addressing Rising Crimes Against Women
The campaign also underscores the urgent need to tackle the rising incidence of crimes against women. Lamba cited alarming statistics, including 20,000 reported cases of crimes against women in Rajasthan over the past six months. She highlighted egregious incidents, such as the brutal case of two women being buried alive in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, as evidence of the growing lawlessness and lack of fear among perpetrators.
Lamba’s remarks reflect a broader concern that the increase in violence against women signals systemic failures in the legal system and societal norms. The Mahila Congress’s campaign seeks to address these issues head-on by advocating for stronger legal protections and enforcement mechanisms.
Parliamentary Support and Future Actions
The Mahila Congress is also rallying support from key figures within the Congress Party. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal have all pledged to elevate these issues in both Houses of Parliament. Their backing is crucial for pushing the agenda forward and ensuring that the legislative changes necessary for women’s empowerment are realized.
Summary
The All India Mahila Congress is launching a vigorous national campaign to demand the immediate implementation of the women’s reservation law, financial support through the Mahalakshmi Scheme, and enhanced safety measures for women. The campaign seeks to address systemic issues related to women’s rights and safety, with strong support from prominent Congress leaders and a commitment to ensuring that women’s voices are heard and acted upon at the highest levels of government.
Key Learning Points
| Learning Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Launch of Nationwide Campaign | The Mahila Congress is initiating a country-wide movement for women’s rights starting on July 29, 2024. |
| Urgent Implementation of Women’s Reservation Law | The campaign demands the swift activation of the women’s reservation law, which has been delayed. |
| Mahalakshmi Scheme for Financial Empowerment | The scheme proposes ₹1 lakh annual cash assistance for women in impoverished families. |
| Rising Crime Rates Against Women | The campaign highlights alarming statistics and incidents of violence against women, calling for stronger legal measures. |
| Support from Congress Leaders | Key Congress figures have pledged to advocate for these issues in Parliament, supporting the campaign’s objectives. |
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