PM Modi Condemns Abuses Against Mother, Calls for Accountability

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound distress over the verbal abuse directed at his mother during the recent ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ organized by the Congress party in Bihar. Speaking on March 5, 2024, Modi stated that while he might forgive the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress for their actions, the people of Bihar would not. His comments followed an incident in Darbhanga that has sparked significant controversy.

During a virtual address aimed at inaugurating a cooperative for women associated with self-help groups in Bihar, Modi criticized the opposition parties for what he termed an assault on the dignity of mothers. “My late mother had nothing to do with politics, so what was her fault; why was she abused?” he questioned, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Modi emphasized the cultural significance of Bihar, stating, “This is the land of Maa Janki… where Chhath Puja is celebrated. My mother was abused from the dais of RJD and Congress. I had never imagined such a thing would happen… it was an insult to the mothers and daughters of Bihar.”

He shared personal reflections about his mother’s sacrifices, saying, “The mother who gave birth to me asked me to serve the motherland, which I am doing.” Modi portrayed his mother’s values as central to his political mission, underscoring his commitment to the welfare of women in the country.

Modi accused the RJD of fostering a culture where women were treated as objects of exploitation. He remarked, “Whenever people with an anti-women mentality came to power, mothers, daughters and sisters had to endure suffering the most.” He referred to the period of RJD governance as the “mafia raj,” where crime rates escalated, asserting that the party protected criminals, resulting in daily incidents of violence against women.

The Prime Minister also criticized Congress, asserting that it has historically resisted the advancement of individuals from backward communities. “I may forgive them, but the people of Bihar will never pardon them for insulting my mother,” Modi stated, calling for the electorate to hold these parties accountable in the upcoming assembly elections.

He urged the citizens of Bihar to voice their discontent, declaring, “In every street and neighborhood, only one voice should be heard — ‘we won’t tolerate insult to a mother, we will not tolerate RJD’s tyranny and Congress’ attacks.’” As the assembly elections approach, Modi’s remarks emphasize the emotional and cultural stakes involved in the political landscape of Bihar.

This incident has galvanized public sentiment, potentially influencing the electoral dynamics as parties prepare for the polls later this year.