CM Manik Saha Slams Congress, Credits Modi Govt for ‘Historic’ Women’s Empowerment Push
Apr 23, 2026
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Congress-led opposition, accusing it of decades-long inaction and “hypocrisy” on women’s empowerment while crediting the Narendra Modi government for delivering transformative reforms.
Addressing a press conference at the state BJP headquarters in Agartala, Saha described the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in 2023 as a landmark achievement. The legislation, which ensures 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, was passed with an overwhelming majority in both Houses of Parliament.
Calling it the result of “firm political will,” Saha said the bill fulfilled a long-pending demand that previous governments had failed to address. “For years, women’s empowerment remained a distant promise under Congress rule. There were no decisive reforms, no reservation, and no meaningful structural change,” he alleged.
The Chief Minister also highlighted several flagship initiatives introduced under the Modi government, claiming they have significantly improved the socio-economic condition of women across the country. Among these, he pointed to the Lakhpati Didi initiative under the National Rural Livelihood Mission, which aims to help women in self-help groups achieve sustainable incomes, and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which has provided free LPG connections to millions of households.
He further noted that financial inclusion schemes such as Mudra loans have enabled women to start small businesses and become financially independent.
Focusing on Tripura, Saha said women in the state are increasingly participating in self-help groups and skill development programs, benefiting from various central schemes. “Women are now at the forefront of grassroots economic activity in Tripura,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the opposition, Saha alleged that parties which once opposed the Women’s Reservation Bill are now attempting to claim credit for its passage. “Their rhetoric does not match their record. They opposed the bill in Parliament and are now trying to mislead the public,” he said.
