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A Real Women's Day Gift!

Robert Clements Robert Clements
10 Mar 2025

Many papers headlined PM Modi's latest announcement of handing over his social media accounts to women on Women's Day, March 8.

Sounds like a grand gesture, doesn't it?

A modern-day digital chariot ride for women achievers paraded before millions of followers. But before we break into applause, let's pause and ask: is this a step forward or just another well-packaged PR stunt?

Now, don't get me wrong. Seeing women achievers take centre stage is heartwarming. Their stories of grit, resilience, and success will no doubt inspire many. But let's face it—what happens when the clock strikes midnight on March 8? Does Cinderella's social media carriage turn back into a pumpkin of everyday struggles?

Real change for women in India needs more than just a symbolic X/Twitter parade.

We need legislative action, cultural shifts, and policy overhauls that outlast the trending topics of the day.

Let's start with one of the most glaring issues—marital rape. India remains one of the few countries where a husband forcing himself on his wife is not explicitly criminalised. Apparently, some still believe that a marriage certificate comes with a lifetime subscription to non-consensual intimacy. A nation that takes such pride in its legal framework cannot afford to ignore this fundamental violation of human rights.

Then there's safety—or the lack of it. From bustling city streets to quiet village roads, from workplaces to public transport, from boardrooms to social media comment sections—women face harassment and violence at every turn. We have helpline numbers and pink police patrols, but what we really need is a justice system that delivers quick, effective, and fear-inducing consequences for perpetrators.

After all, a well-lit street is reassuring, but a legal system that terrifies offenders is far better.

Now, let's talk money. Equal pay remains an elusive dream in India. Women often earn significantly less than men for the same work, as if their qualifications and efforts come with a discount tag.

Oh yes, a Women's Day retweet is nice, but a paycheck that matches their male counterparts? Now, that's a real tribute.

And let's not forget representation. Women continue to be underrepresented in politics, corporate leadership, and decision-making positions. They're not asking for special treatment—just a fair shot at sitting at the table without having to fight for the last available chair.

So, while the Women's Day social media takeover might give us a warm, fuzzy feeling, let's not get too carried away. The real celebration will be when women in India don't need a designated day to have their voices heard, their rights respected, and their achievements acknowledged.

As they say, actions speak louder than words—or, in this case, louder than tweets. So, Mr. Prime Minister, while the country appreciates the gesture, how about some solid policies, airtight laws, and actual systemic change?

Now that would truly be worth showing the world, especially a male chauvinist like Trump..!

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