'LDF, UDF Govts Considered Nari Shakti Weak': PM Modi At BJP Mahila Conference In Kerala

Addressing the gathering, PM said, " I'm grateful that 'Stree Shakti" have gathered here in large numbers to bless me..."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted an extensive roadshow in Thrissur and subsequently addressed a gathering of over two lakh women at a conference named 'Sthree Shakthi Modikk Oppam' (Empower Women with Modi) on Wednesday. The PM received a grand welcome, with individuals showering flowers on his path to the stage at the expansive Thekkinkadu ground. In reciprocation, the PM waved at the crowd that had assembled to catch a glimpse of him.

Addressing the gathering, PM said, " I'm grateful that 'Stree Shakti" have gathered here in large numbers to bless me..."

"Fortunately, I am the MP of Lord Shiva's Kashi and here, in Vadakkunnathan Temple, Lord Shiva himself is seated. As we have gathered on this ground, the joy for Thrissur Pooram festival is quite visible," he said.

The PM said: "After independence, LDF and UDF govts considered 'Nari Shakti' as weak and they put on hold the law that could give reservation to women in Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha, for so long but Modi gave you the guarantee to give you your rights and I fulfilled it...till Congress and Left alliance govt were there in the country, Muslim sisters were suffering because of triple talaq but Modi gave the guarantee to give freedom from it and fulfilled it sincerely"

The event was organised by Kerala unit of BJP to congratulate PM Modi for successfully passing the Women's Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Women from various backgrounds, including anganwadi teachers, ASHA workers, entrepreneurs, artists, MGNREGA and neighbourhood network workers, as well as social and cultural activists, took part in the event.

Ahead of the event, women in Kerala said, "Our PM Modi is the most respected leader, he is coming to Kerala to address the woman here...we are here to get a glimpse of him."

Though the program was organized as a mass meeting of women, it is perceived as the official commencement of the BJP's election campaign for the upcoming general elections in an effort to establish political influence in Kerala. The state is currently dominated by the CPI(M)-led LDF and Congress-led UDF.