Dhar - A video of Union Minister Savitri Thakur incorrectly writing the 'Beti Padhao, Beti Bachao' slogan in Hindi has gone viral, sparking criticism from the opposition Congress. The incident took place during the 'School Chalo Abhiyan' event at a government school in Bramha Kundi, Dhar, on June 18.
Thakur, Lok Sabha member from Dhar and Minister of State for Women and Child Development, was the chief guest at the program. The video circulating online shows her writing the slogan in Devanagari script incorrectly on a whiteboard, prompting a heated debate on social media.
Opposition's Reaction
Senior Congress leader K K Mishra responded sharply, questioning Thakur's qualifications. "It is unfortunate that individuals holding constitutional posts and managing significant departments lack competence even in their mother tongue. How can they effectively lead their ministry?" Mishra stated, advocating for constitutional amendments to mandate minimum educational qualifications for election candidates. "This issue pertains to the system, not just the individual," he added.
BJP's Defense
In defense, Dhar district BJP president Manoj Somani criticized Congress for politicizing a mistake made in haste. "Savitri ji's intentions are pure, but Congress is unable to maintain the same purity in their criticisms. The tribal community will not forget the insult directed towards a tribal woman," Somani remarked. He accused Congress of struggling to accept the rise of a tribal woman in politics.
Reactions from Other Leaders
The Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, Umang Singhar, also expressed disappointment in Thakur's mistake. "What kind of leadership is this? Does Prime Minister Narendra Modi want only rubber stamp ministers?" Singhar questioned on his social media account. He expressed concern over Thakur's ability to lead effectively and its impact on the children present at the event. "Voters should carefully consider whom they elect as public representatives," he emphasized. Singhar stressed the importance of educated leaders who contribute meaningfully to societal progress.
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