21 April,2026 04:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Opposition, accusing them of misleading the public and undermining women's empowerment by opposing the Women's Reservation Bill, reported IANS.
Speaking at the launch of the Yuva Shakti Jagar Yatra, Fadnavis alleged that Opposition parties had taken contradictory stands on the Women's Reservation Bill, formally known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, reported IANS.
He claimed that while the Opposition initially supported the Bill when it was passed in 2023, their current stance reflects political opportunism. He accused them of spreading misinformation regarding issues such as delimitation and census to delay the implementation of women's reservation.
Fadnavis further alleged that the Opposition's actions amount to denying adequate representation to women in legislative bodies.
The Chief Minister was addressing party workers at the Yatra organised under the leadership of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha state president Krishnaraj Mahadik.
He urged participants to take the message to the grassroots, stating that political narratives should be countered with facts. Fadnavis emphasised that the campaign aims to engage youth and strengthen outreach across communities, reported IANS.
Fadnavis highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping the state's future, noting that a significant portion of Maharashtra's population is under the age of 35, reported IANS.
He encouraged young people to actively engage in public discourse and resist what he described as divisive or misleading narratives. Stressing the importance of national priorities, he said that a strong ideological foundation is essential for long-term development.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the spread of what he termed "urban extremist ideologies" among sections of youth, particularly in educational institutions, reported IANS.
He called for greater awareness and engagement to ensure that young people remain aligned with constitutional values and democratic principles.
According to Fadnavis, the Yuva Shakti Jagar Yatra is designed to reach diverse sections of society, including individuals contributing to social and institutional development, reported IANS.
He said the initiative seeks to inspire youth participation, promote civic awareness and build a positive momentum for the state's progress.
Reiterating his stance, Fadnavis said efforts will continue to ensure that women receive adequate representation in governance structures. He maintained that the government remains committed to advancing policies aimed at empowerment and inclusive development, reported IANS.
The remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over the implementation of women's reservation and broader governance issues in the state and at the national level.
(With inputs from IANS)
