Union Minister and BJP leader Savitri Thakur’s recent attempt to write the slogan ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ in Hindi on a whiteboard has sparked controversy. At an event for the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar, Ms. Thakur mistakenly wrote “Beddi Padhao Bachao,” drawing criticism from the Opposition.
ये केंद्रीय महिला एवं बाल विकास राज्यमंत्री सावित्री ठाकुर हैं जिले में शिक्षा जागरूकता रथ पर उन्हें ‘बेटी बचाओ बेटी पढ़ाओ’ का स्लोगन लिखना था लेकिन, मंत्रीजी ने लिखा- “बेढी पडाओ बच्चाव” शपथ-पत्र के मुताबिक वे 12वीं पास हैं ये टीप उनके नहीं बल्कि देश के “शैक्षणिक स्तर” पर है pic.twitter.com/v66qM05Uyc
— Anurag Dwary (@Anurag_Dwary) June 19, 2024
The Congress, led by senior leader KK Mishra, took aim at Ms. Thakur’s literacy, questioning her qualifications despite her educational background, which includes completing class 12, as stated in her affidavit.
“This incident underscores a broader issue within our democracy,” Mishra commented. “How can those in high office, entrusted with significant responsibilities, lack proficiency even in their native language?”
Mishra went on to propose amendments to mandate minimum educational qualifications for electoral candidates, highlighting what he sees as a systemic issue.
Dhar district BJP president Manoj Somani defended Ms. Thakur, accusing the Congress of elitism and anti-tribal sentiments.
“Savitri ji’s intentions were sincere, but the Congress’s reaction reveals their bias. The tribal community will not forget the insult to one of their own,” Somani asserted.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar questioned Ms. Thakur’s competence and leadership qualities, suggesting implications for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ministerial selections.
“What kind of leadership is this? Is the government only interested in figureheads?” Singhar questioned. “Voters should have considered the consequences before electing such representatives.”
Singhar concluded by alleging that the BJP prefers leaders who do not prioritize education, reflecting a broader debate over leadership standards in Indian politics.
