New Delhi: On the eve of International Women's Day, the Congress launched a critique against the Modi government, rallying under the slogan "BJP Hatao, Beti Bachao!"

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' initiative, pointing out that despite its launch with much fanfare in 2014, investigations have revealed that approximately 80% of its budget is allocated to advertising. "Is there a deeper commitment from the prime minister to end female infanticide and advance women's education, or is this merely another platform for self-promotion?" Ramesh questioned. He argued that Indian women are in search of genuine actions, not slogans.

Further addressing the Modi government, Ramesh underscored the nation's demand for explanations on several critical issues, including the Prime Minister's absence in Manipur amidst ongoing turmoil and his silence over sexual harassment allegations against BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh by female wrestlers.

He emphasized the troubling visuals of women being abused and publicly humiliated in Manipur, indicating severe governance failures under the BJP's regime at both state and central levels. "The Prime Minister's lack of comment on the accusations against Singh raises questions about his stance and the implications for 'Modi ka Parivar,'" Ramesh remarked.

Ramesh also tackled the issue of rising inflation under Modi's leadership, coining the phrase "Modi hain to mehengai hain!" to highlight the escalating prices of food and essentials. He questioned the government's strategy to mitigate the impact of inflation on Indian households.

The Congress leader lamented the growing unemployment crisis, particularly noting its discouraging effect on female job seekers, leading to their withdrawal from the workforce. He pointed out a significant decline in women's labor force participation since the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, which threatens to impair the economy's future growth.

Ramesh concluded by questioning the Prime Minister's plan to reintegrate women into the economic fold, stressing the need for actionable strategies over rhetoric.

In a contrasting announcement on International Women's Day, PM Modi declared a Rs 100 reduction in the price of cooking gas cylinders, a move likely aimed at alleviating some financial pressures on households.