Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 15 (HBTV): Bharatiya Janata Party leader Aparna Bisht Yadav extended greetings on the occasion of International Women's Day and praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for efforts to ensure the safety of women in the state.
Speaking to ANI, Yadav said, 'I extend my greetings to everyone on International Women's Day. UP CM Yogi Adityanath is very alert for the protection of our daughters.'
She further criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that proper protocol was not followed during the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to the state.
'The CM of West Bengal is a woman and a veteran leader, and she knows the protocol. She neglected President Droupadi Murmu's visit,' she added.
The controversy erupted after President Murmu expressed disappointment over the arrangements at the conference, questioning the choice of venue and noting that many members of the Santal community could not attend due to its remote location. She also highlighted the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other ministers.
The ruling Trinamool Congress, however, rejected the allegations of protocol lapses, describing them as politically motivated attempts by the opposition to embarrass the state government.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the nation on International Women's Day and paid tribute to the strength, determination, and achievements of India's Nari Shakti.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the growing role of women in shaping India's progress, stating that across every field, women are contributing with determination, creativity, and unmatched zeal, and that their achievements inspire the nation while strengthening the collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat.
Highlighting the government's commitment to women-led development, the Prime Minister said that the empowerment of women lies at the core of several schemes and initiatives, reiterating that the government remains committed to creating opportunities that enable every woman to realise her full potential and contribute to India's development journey.
In a series of posts on X, the Prime Minister said, 'On International Women's Day, I extend my greetings to all our Nari Shakti. Across every field, women are shaping India's progress with determination, creativity and unmatched zeal. Their achievements inspire our nation and strengthen our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat. Empowerment of women is at the core of our various schemes and initiatives. We remain committed to creating opportunities that enable every woman to realise her full potential and contribute to India's journey of development.'
International Women's Day, observed globally on March 8, celebrates the achievements, leadership, and contributions of women across all spheres of life and reaffirms the collective commitment towards gender equality, safety, dignity, and empowerment.
(ANI)