Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav reaffirmed the state's unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, stating that Indian culture accords the highest respect to women.
Speaking at the State-Level Women’s Mock Parliament held at the auditorium of People’s University, Dr. Yadav said the government is consistently advancing efforts in this direction.
“Indian culture grants the highest respect to women,” CM Yadav said, highlighting that women hold key leadership positions across the state. “In Narsinghpur district, both the Collector and Superintendent of Police are women officers. Similarly, Shahdol division is headed by a woman Commissioner, and the state has previously had a woman Chief Secretary,” he added.
The Chief Minister also noted Madhya Pradesh's pioneering stance on women’s safety. “Madhya Pradesh was the first state in the country to introduce the death penalty for rape cases,” he said, underscoring the state's tough stance on crimes against women.
The program was inaugurated by Dr. Yadav with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and was attended by several dignitaries, including Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Shri Vishvas Kailash Sarang, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Smt. Krishna Gaur, Bhopal Mayor Smt. Malti Rai, Member of Parliament Shri V.D. Sharma, Rajya Sabha MP Smt. Maya Narolia, MLA Shri Hemant Khandelwal, Shri Hitanand Sharma, and hundreds of female students from colleges across Madhya Pradesh.
During the event, CM Yadav honoured MISA detainee Shri Tapan Bhaumik with a Tulsi plant and a ceremonial shawl, engaging in thoughtful discussions with attendees about the Emergency period. “The Women’s Mock Parliament serves as an important ideological platform, helping youth develop a deeper understanding of the nation's political system,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of civic awareness, Dr. Yadav called for educating the younger generation about the Emergency imposed 50 years ago. “It is every citizen’s duty to uphold the spirit of the Constitution and safeguard democratic values in all circumstances. These principles are vital not only for the country but also for personal development,” he stressed.
The Chief Minister also recalled the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in defending democratic values and encouraged students to delve deeper into the thoughts of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
He urged participants to engage in meaningful dialogue on significant national issues, stating, “Students should study and reflect upon the ideas of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and engage in detailed discussion on key issues such as Article 370, Triple Talaq and military operations against terrorism, constitutional amendments, and the moral foundation of political intent.”