‘Women belong to nobody except themselves’, Rahul Gandhi attacks ‘Manusmriti Mindset’

Pune: Expressing his view that women are the greatest strength of the nation, Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Saturday launched a sharp critique on patriarchal frameworks, saying that keeping women dependent is part of the “Manusmriti mindset”.

Speaking at the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” event held at the Shri Shivaji Preparatory Military School College Ground in Pune, Rahul Gandhi asserted that women do not belong to anyone but themselves and urged young women to “break the cage”.

Addressing a large gathering dominated by Gen Z female students, the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition clarified that his visit was not centered on politics, but rather on direct interaction regarding youth perspectives, systemic discrimination in education, and safety concerns.

Several students joined him on stage to share personal challenges.

Rahul Gandhi said that while many view the economy or the military as India’s main strength, he believes the nation’s biggest asset lies in the ideas and dreams of its 70 crore women.

He emphasised that women naturally possess higher sensitivity, gentleness, and empathy.

Criticising traditional frameworks like Manusmriti for confining women to rigid roles (such as solely being identified as a daughter, wife, or mother), the Leader of Opposition said: “Women do not belong to any man; you belong only to yourselves.”

He cited that nearly 4.5 lakh girls face female foeticide annually, 80 per cent of women experience harassment, and 30 per cent face physical abuse.

He highlighted that six of the 100 women in the country experience direct physical assault or rape.

Around 50 per cent of women drop out or turn down jobs and higher education opportunities due to the fear of violence.

Additionally, 45 per cent drop out due to marriage or domestic responsibilities, and 60 per cent of young women are unable to leave their homes alone safely.

He pointed out economic inequality, noting that only eight per cent of women in India own independent property.

Rahul Gandhi reiterated that systemic discrimination against girls remains deeply embedded in the education sector, calling on the youth to break free from societal restrictions and assert their independence across all fields.

He clarified his stance at the outset that he would not be discussing politics during the session.

Rahul Gandhi opened the conversation by focusing on the younger generation and their potential, highlighting that India’s large youth population is the country’s greatest strength.

The interaction centered around understanding youth perspectives, their concerns, and their expectations for the future.

Engaging directly with Gen Z attendees, the Leader of Opposition facilitated an interactive dialogue that saw enthusiastic participation from the students.

The discussion spanned key topics, including education, the future of youth, social change, and the contemporary challenges facing today’s generation.

During the event, the concept of the “ideal woman” (Aadarsh Nari) was also addressed, touching upon the evolving role of women in society, their contributions, and shifting social perceptions.

Steering away from a traditional political address, the format focused on open dialogue, allowing students to raise questions and share their thoughts.

IANS