‘Why target only Hindus?’ Kiren Rijiju slams Rahul Gandhi’s ‘smash patriarchy’ call

NEW DELHI: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his recent remarks calling for “smash patriarchy,” questioning why the Congress party consistently targets Hindu traditions while remaining silent on the plight of minority women.

Taking to social media platform X, Rijiju questioned the Congress party’s selective approach to social reform. “Congress says, ‘Smash patriarchy.’ Why always target only Hindus? What about minority women? What about Triple Talaq? Are Muslim girls not our sisters & betis? If you truly stand with women, stand with every woman, every community, every time,” Rijiju posted.

Congress says, “Smash patriarchy.”

Why always target only Hindus?

What about minority women? What about Triple Talaq? Are Muslim girls not our sisters & betis?

If you truly stand with women, stand with every woman, every community, every time.

Our Indian betis are leading in…

— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 24, 2026

The Union Minister further highlighted the achievements of Indian women under the current dispensation, asserting that “Nari Shakti” (woman power) is thriving across various sectors. “Our Indian betis are leading in ISRO, flying fighter jets & winning medals at the Olympics. Nari Shakti is visible in Lakhpati Didis & Drone Didis. Do not undermine Indian betis to divide Indian society,” he added.

Rijiju’s remarks came after Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s address in the Pune leg of the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign on Saturday, highlighting issues concerning women’s safety, rights and social control, and asserting that violence, disrespect and concerns disguised as care can become tools of oppression.

Rahul Gandhi strongly criticised a quote attributed to the Manusmriti during the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” program, highlighting its problematic stance on women’s independence.

‘Smash the patriarchy’

Be Loud, Be Proud, Fight For Your Space. pic.twitter.com/1LHsV7yvx4

— Rahul Kaswan (@RahulKaswanMP) August 25, 2026

Gandhi quoted the Manusmriti, stating, “In childhood, a female belongs to her father. In youth, she belongs to her husband. When her lord is dead, she belongs to her sons. A woman must never be independent.” He unequivocally condemned these words, asserting, “This is a direct quote from the Manusmriti, and these words are a shame, because these words should never ever have been spoken.”

Congress MP called for a decisive end to patriarchal structures, stating that the country needs to “smash the prevailing patriarchy” to truly empower women, while addressing female students in the event. (ANI)