BJP Spokesperson Rajni Sethi questions NC Govt over unfulfilled promises to Women in Jammu & Kashmir

JAMMU: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated across the country to recognize the strength, contribution, and achievements of women, various events and programs were organized throughout India as well as in Jammu & Kashmir.

BJP spokesperson Rajni Sethi raised serious questions to the National Conference (NC) government regarding its approach towards women in Jammu & Kashmir. She asked whether the government truly respects women or if it still holds the same mindset that existed in its previous regimes regarding the treatment of women.

Rajni Sethi questioned whether the government considers women as an equal and vital 50% part of society, and whether justice will be done to them in the coming days. She also asked if the promises made to women during the elections will finally be fulfilled and translated into real action.

She emphasized that women of Jammu & Kashmir deserve dignity, respect, and the fulfillment of the commitments made to them, rather than mere assurances. The day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to empower women, ensure their dignity, and provide them with equal opportunities in every sphere of life.

However, this occasion also gives us an opportunity to reflect on the commitments made by political parties toward women and evaluate whether those promises have been fulfilled. During the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024, the National Conference (NC) presented a manifesto that included several commitments aimed at the welfare and empowerment of women. The manifesto promised significant steps to strengthen the economic and social status of women across the Union Territory.

Among the key promises made were financial assistance of ₹5000 per month to women heads of economically weaker families, free public transport facilities for women, promotion of women entrepreneurship through financial support for small businesses, and increasing women’s participation in governance and decision-making processes. Additionally, the manifesto spoke about improving facilities for girls in schools, including ensuring separate toilets to encourage greater participation in education.

The manifesto also promised the strengthening of social security schemes, including increasing pensions for widows and other beneficiaries, as well as providing relief measures for economically weaker families. Assistance for the marriage of girls from poor families was also proposed to be increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000.

These commitments created expectations among women across Jammu & Kashmir who hoped that the new government would bring meaningful change to their lives. Women, especially those belonging to economically weaker sections, believed that these measures would provide them with financial stability, better opportunities, and improved access to essential services.

However, nearly one and a half years into the functioning of the government, the reality on the ground raises serious concerns. Many of the promises highlighted in the manifesto remain unfulfilled, and the benefits that were expected to reach women across Jammu & Kashmir have yet to be realized. The absence of visible progress on these commitments has led to growing disappointment among women who were hopeful for tangible support and empowerment.

International Women’s Day should not only be a symbolic celebration but also a moment of accountability. Governments must ensure that promises made to women are translated into real policies and effective implementation. Women deserve not just assurances during elections, but sustained action that genuinely improves their lives.

As we mark this important day, it is essential to reaffirm our commitment to women’s empowerment and to ensure that policies and promises made in their name are implemented with sincerity, transparency, and urgency. The women of Jammu & Kashmir deserve real progress, not just promises.