Leader of the Opposition Debabrata Saikia has formally requested the Assam State Commission for Women to investigate alleged offenses against women leaders of the Congress party that occurred during a “Parivartan Yatra” in the lead-up to Assembly elections. In his letter, Saikia accused individuals affiliated with the ruling BJP of targeting women leaders with obscene and derogatory remarks, thereby compromising their dignity and modesty, specifically during a convoy traveling from Tezpur to Dhekiajuli. The convoy encountered obstruction and violent attacks at Bihaguri, resulting in injuries to several women, including Rupa Kalita Das and Trishna Bora Kakati.
Saikia characterized the incidents as severe and urged the Commission to initiate an inquiry under the Assam State Commission for Women Act of 1994. Along with his request, he submitted digital evidence that he claims illustrates violations of women’s dignity and rights, necessitating investigation as per the Act’s provisions. He asserted that the accused individuals’ actions might constitute various offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including criminal conspiracy, insult to a woman’s modesty, and voluntary causing hurt, among others.
Additionally, Saikia highlighted that the incident potentially infringes upon Articles 14 and 15 of the Indian Constitution, which uphold the rights to equality and protection against discrimination based on sex. The gravity of the situation as described by Saikia reflects broader concerns regarding the treatment of women in political arenas and the guarantees provided for their safety and rights in public life.