Pune: Addressing students at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event at the AISSMS College ground in Pune on Saturday, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi advocated strongly for women’s autonomy and security, asserting that India’s greatest strength lies in women standing up for themselves and exercising independence.
Targeting patriarchal mindsets, Gandhi referenced classical texts, noting that the Manusmriti historically prescribed that a woman must remain dependent on her father in childhood, her husband in youth, and her sons in widowhood, effectively barring her from living independently. Opposing such doctrines, Gandhi stated that the nation’s true potential is unlocked only when women are self-reliant and possess complete faith in their own agency.
Gandhi observed that societal discourse frequently confines a woman’s identity to familial functions—namely as a mother, wife, or daughter. While clarifying that there is nothing inherently wrong with these roles, he emphasized that they cannot serve as the sole measure of a woman’s worth or identity in modern society.
“Women across India are excelling across diverse sectors—they are accomplished professionals, athletes, and leaders in various fields. Their entire identity cannot simply be limited to being a daughter, wife, or mother,” Gandhi said during the interaction. He added that women naturally demonstrate greater empathy, resilience, sensitivity, and long-term vision.
Underlining their central role in the nation’s future, the Congress leader pointed out that while commentators often cite economic indicators, military strength, healthcare systems, or overall population as the country’s primary assets, the foundational power of India resides in the distinct journeys, aspirations, and imaginations of its 70 crore women.
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