‘Rights Of Women Is A Double Engine Of Development’

Bhubaneswar: “Women can bring about a change in politics. If politics is power, then women can use this power in a better way,” said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in a press release on Thursday.

Giving examples of German Chancellor Angela Markel and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s compassionate response to the issue of migrants, he said, “If politics can estimate the value of the country, we should also give a chance to the women of the country.”

Naveen also said, “Biju Babu had many contributions towards women empowerment. He had started 33 per cent reservation for women in Panchayat Raj organisations. We have increased the 33 per cent reservation to 50 per cent.”

“Initially it was criticised by many people. They were saying that husbands and fathers will really handle all the things for the women. To some extent, it was right initially. But today, 60,000 women are working as Sarpanches, Ward Members, Samiti members, Zilla Parisad members and president in Odisha,” mentioned Naveen in the release.

Today, the infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate has come down significantly. It has been made possible because of women leaders, who have been working on the ground level. All the credit goes to 70 lakh women who are involved in Mission Shakti Andolan, said Naveen.

He also said a country which does not involve women in the decision-making forum, works like a single engine. Proper development is not possible in that country.

“In my point of view, if the country has to reach the number one position and compete with America and China, then we have to empower the women of our country. This will work like a double engine in our country. With this, development and equality will be possible in our country,” said Naveen.

“Our party, BJD, is the first political party in the country, which has decided to send 33 per cent women to Lok Sabha. As the president of BJD, it was a proud moment for me,” said Naveen.

I’m sure the people of Odisha will ensure that the voice of our seven women candidates is heard in the hallowed hall of Parliament and I am hopeful that the movement that has started from Odisha will be followed by our national parties.