Prime Minister Modi Emphasizes Zero Tolerance for Crimes Against Women at the Lakhpatis Didi Conference

New Delhi, August 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the Lakhpatis Didi Conference in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, delivered a stern message about crimes against women and children, declaring them an unforgivable sin, insisting that the guilty should not escape justice.

During his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the gravity of ensuring safety for women and children, labeling such crimes as inexcusable. “No matter who the offender is, there should be no escape. Those aiding in any form, whether in hospitals, schools, offices, or any level of the police system, should be held accountable,” Modi stated.

Highlighting the legal reforms his government has implemented, he pointed out that stringent laws have been enacted to punish crimes against women. Comparing his administration’s efforts to those of previous governments, Modi claimed that his government has done more for the safety and empowerment of women in its ten years than was done in the seven decades following India’s independence.

The event also saw the Prime Minister recognizing 1.1 million new "Lakhpati Didis," women who have succeeded in crossing the annual income threshold of INR 100,000 through self-help groups. He also announced the allocation of a INR 2.5 billion revolving fund which will benefit about 480,000 members across 43,000 self-help groups.

Further, Modi distributed INR 5 billion in bank loans, set to benefit 2.35 million members of 258,000 self-help groups, underscoring the government’s commitment to women’s financial independence and community development.

In his address, Modi reiterated the significant role women play in societal and national development, reflecting on his electoral promise to make 3 million women 'Lakhpati Didis'. This initiative is not just about enhancing the income of women, but also empowering entire families and transforming rural economies.

Additionally, the Prime Minister expressed his condolences for the victims of the recent bus accident in Nepal, where many from Jalgaon lost their lives, assuring that both central and state governments would provide necessary assistance.

Reflecting on his recent visit to Poland, Modi mentioned the Kolhapur Memorial in the capital city of Warsaw, which commemorates the hospitality and service of the people of Kolhapur during World War II, who provided refuge to thousands of Polish women and children.