UP Women Marathon On Priyanka Gandhi's Call

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's women-centred "Ladki hoon, lad sakti hoon (I'm a girl and can fight)" campaign in Uttar Pradesh saw a major boost as thousands of women defied district administration to participate in a marathon organised by the party.

The Congress shared videos on Twitter and other social media platforms which showed large gatherings in Lucknow and Jhansi despite the district authorities denying permission for the marathon citing the rising cases of Omicron strain.

In Jhansi, the girls refused to return and the police did not allow them to move ahead.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra slammed the state government over the denial of permission. "Yes, you talk anti-women things like controlling girls, that's why you didn't allow girls' marathon in Lucknow. Girls of Jhansi have sent you a message that girls will not tolerate (this), they will fight for their rights. If you can rally, girls will run," read her Hindi tweet.

Congress leader Priyanka Gupta said every participant in the women's marathon drew inspiration from Rani Laxmibai, who hailed from Jhansi and fought against the British.

The UP Congress on this occasion also used a hashtag #ladki_se_darta_hai_Yogi (Yogi feels afraid of the girls).

Earlier on December 8, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra launched the party’s manifesto for women for the upcoming UP Assembly polls at a function in Lucknow, making a slew of promises including 40 per cent reservation for women in government jobs if her party is voted to power.