New Delhi, Aug 2026 : Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday criticised Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi over his recent call to “smash patriarchy”, accusing the Congress of selectively raising issues concerning women while allegedly overlooking challenges faced by women from minority communities.
Reacting to Gandhi’s remarks in a post on X, Rijiju questioned why, according to him, the Congress repeatedly focuses its criticism on Hindu society. He asked whether issues affecting minority women, including those associated with the practice of Triple Talaq, also deserved equal attention.
“Congress says, ‘Smash patriarchy.’ Why always target only Hindus? What about minority women? What about Triple Talaq? Are Muslim girls not our sisters and betis?” Rijiju said.
The Union minister argued that support for women’s empowerment should be universal and should not be restricted to a particular religion or community. He said political campaigns concerning women’s rights should address the concerns of women across society and avoid creating divisions.
“If you truly stand with women, stand with every woman, every community, every time,” Rijiju said, stressing that genuine empowerment should be inclusive and consistent.
Rijiju also highlighted the achievements of Indian women in various fields, pointing to their growing participation in science, defence and sports. He cited women working with the Indian Space Research Organisation, flying fighter aircraft and winning medals at international sporting events as examples of the progress made by Indian women.
The minister also referred to government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s economic empowerment and participation in technology-driven sectors. He cited programmes involving Lakhpati Didis and Drone Didis, saying these initiatives demonstrated the increasing role of women in entrepreneurship, technology and rural economic activity.
Rijiju cautioned against what he described as political narratives that could undermine the achievements of Indian women or create divisions within society. “Do not undermine Indian betis to divide Indian society,” he said.
Gandhi had recently used the phrase “smash patriarchy” while addressing a predominantly female gathering. During his remarks, he described India’s nearly 70 crore women as one of the country’s biggest assets and criticised what he termed rigid patriarchal structures that restrict women’s freedom, opportunities and ability to express themselves.
Gandhi has frequently raised issues related to gender equality, social justice and women’s representation in political and economic institutions. His remarks have drawn political responses from the BJP, with leaders of the ruling party challenging the Congress to demonstrate its commitment to women’s empowerment across religious and social communities.
Rijiju’s latest comments add to the continuing political debate between the BJP and Congress over women’s rights, social justice and empowerment. While the Congress has focused on challenging patriarchal structures and expanding opportunities for women, the BJP has sought to highlight government welfare and economic initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in different sectors.
The exchange reflects the wider political contest between the two parties over how women’s empowerment should be addressed and represented in public policy and political discourse.
