UP Congress Chief Ajay Rai Criticizes Narendra Modi in Varanasi Over Women’s Respect Debate

A political controversy has intensified in Varanasi after Congress leader Ajay Rai made strong remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a press conference.

The debate comes after the Women’s Reservation Amendment Bill was not passed in Parliament, leading to sharp exchanges between BJP and opposition parties. While BJP leaders have criticized Congress, opposition leaders have also responded strongly.

Addressing the media along with his wife Reena Rai, Ajay Rai raised questions about women’s respect and personal values. He alleged that the Prime Minister has not given due respect to his wife, Jashodaben Modi. Rai said that true respect for women should begin at home and added that public campaigns about women empowerment may seem incomplete without it.

He also reacted to the Prime Minister’s statement accusing Congress of wrongdoing over the bill. Rai countered by saying that failing to respect one’s own spouse is a serious issue and questioned the government’s intent on women-related matters.

During the press conference, Rai demanded that Prime Minister Modi should visit Kashi with his wife and offer prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. He said this would show real respect towards women and strengthen public trust.

Rai further claimed that despite being a Member of Parliament from Varanasi for over a decade, the Prime Minister has never appeared publicly with his wife in the city. He described the “Nari Shakti Vandan” initiative as symbolic and questioned its sincerity.

Responding to questions about making personal remarks, Rai said the issue is not personal but about respect within family and society. He argued that if someone cannot respect their own spouse, it raises questions about broader commitments to women’s dignity.

The remarks have added fuel to the ongoing political debate, with both BJP and Congress expected to continue their strong positions on women’s rights and representation in the coming days.