Rahul Gandhi Calls for ‘End to Patriarchy’ at Pune Event After PM Modi’s ‘Cultural Shock’ Remark

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has called for an end to patriarchy, directly confronting what he termed the "Manusmriti mindset" during an outreach event in Pune. Addressing students as part of the "Chhatron Ki Goonj" campaign, Gandhi asserted that women belong to themselves, not to their fathers, husbands, or sons. He specifically criticized ancient texts like the Manusmriti for prescribing male authority over women throughout their lives.

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If boys abuse, there is no problem and it is allowed, but if a girl abuses, it is a cultural shock.

Gandhi also turned his attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, playing a video of the PM expressing "cultural shock" over the language used by women during a protest. Gandhi argued this showed a double standard, noting that while boys' use of abusive language was overlooked, girls' use of similar language elicited a shocked reaction. He drew parallels to statements by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and former Haryana chief minister M L Khattar, which he suggested reflected a patriarchal view that blames women for societal issues.

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Together we have to finish this patriarchy -- smash the patriarchy!

"This is a mindset," Gandhi stated, describing it as one that seeks to confine women, control their lives, and deny them freedom while granting full liberty to men. He declared, "We do not want such Hindustan." Instead, Gandhi proclaimed women and girls as India's strength and future, urging them to "smash the patriarchy" and fight for their rightful place in society. He identified physical violence, denial of opportunities, and economic violence as key forms of oppression against women.

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These words are a shame. These words should not have been spoken.